Exercise is important in the golden years because it can lower the risk of many health problems. However, seniors with certain existing conditions should be careful about the types of workouts they do. If your elderly loved one has one of the following health conditions, there are certain exercises that may be too dangerous for him or her to perform. Luckily, there are some safer alternatives so your loved one can remain physically active.
Heart Disease
Seniors with heart disease should avoid doing strenuous exercises that put a lot of strain on the heart, such as intense cardio workouts. Stretching, brisk walking, and light to moderate cardio exercises are generally safe for older adults to do as long as they don’t cause chest pain, shortness of breath, an irregular heartbeat, or dizziness.
Some seniors may need assistance to safely perform exercises. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of elderly home care. Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis can lead to a higher risk of fractures, so certain types of exercises should be avoided. Unsafe activities for seniors with this bone disease include high-impact exercises like running or jumping and exercises that require a lot of twisting or bending, such as tennis or sit-ups. These exercises can increase the risk of developing compression fractures. Instead, seniors should focus on safer exercises, which include low-impact aerobics, walking, swimming, light weightlifting, and stretching.
If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Phoenix families can rely on. All of our caregivers are bonded, licensed, and insured, there are no hidden fees, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
Osteoarthritis
If your loved one has osteoarthritis, he or she should avoid activities and exercises that can cause pain and stiffness in the joints to flare up. These include step aerobics, running, and other high-impact exercises that place a considerable amount of strain on the joints. Exercises and activities that can irritate the joints through hyperextension, such as some yoga poses and volleyball, should also be avoided. Safer exercises include low-impact activities like swimming and riding a bike.
High Blood Pressure
Aging adults with high blood pressure face an increased risk of developing serious heart problems. If your loved one has this condition, he or she should avoid high-intensity cardio workouts that put a lot of strain on the cardiovascular system in a short amount of time. Instead, your loved one should do light to moderate cardio or aerobic exercises, such as swimming, jogging, or bicycling.
Seniors who need help exercising safely can benefit from the help of trained professional caregivers. Phoenix home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. If you need professional home care for your aging loved one, our Care Managers are just a phone call away. Reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care today at 602-847-6549.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
