Making exercise a regular part of life is a challenge for people of any age. We never seem to have enough time to fit in a workout. We’re tired from a long day of work. We’ll wake up early and exercise then. We’ve all made excuses like these for not exercising; but frailty, chronic illness, and advanced age make it even more difficult to stick to an exercise plan.

Hillendale’s Concord home care experts want to help seniors overcome the following common fitness roadblocks so they can stay fit and active:

  • Self-confidence: It’s normal for seniors to feel overwhelmed with the idea of meeting exercise goals. It can help to begin slowly with exercises that are easily accomplished and advance gradually; and, motivate the senior with frequent encouragement.
  • Attitude: Attitude is everything when it comes to physical fitness. If approached negatively, it will be much harder to maintain an effective exercise regimen. Chooseactivities that will be enjoyable and that the senior will look forward to.
  • Pain: The saying, “No pain, no gain” simply isn’t true. Older adults should avoid overdoing it, and cut back the level of intensity if experiencing pain or discomfort.
  • Disabilities: Seniors with physical or cognitive limitations can and should remain active within their ability level. Check with the doctor for a referral to a personal trainer or physical therapist who can put together a program of specialized exercises.
  • Fear of Injury: Many older adults have balance issues, often due to weakened muscles, and fear that exercise will cause a fall or injury. However, there are a variety of assistive devices that can be used to allow for safe, effective exercising.
  • Financial Concerns: Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need an expensive gym membership to stay fit! Walking in the neighborhood or local park and other simple exercises in and around the home, using common household items, can be incorporated into an exercise program at little to no cost.
  • Illness or Fatigue: Exercises can be customized to match the senior’s energy level, and he or she may gradually increase endurance level over time.

 

Remember, the key to ongoing success with an exercise program is to ensure the older adult feels comfortable and safe with the plan and the exercises. If soreness is noted in muscles or joints the next day after exercising, a lower intensity can be implemented; and check with the doctor if the pain or discomfort persists.

Hillendale Home Care’s in-home caregivers will work with your loved one’s physician to develop a safe exercise plan according to his or her abilities to increase strength, independence, and overall quality of life. Give us a call at 925-933-8181 to learn more about the benefits of daily exercise for older adults and to discover more about how our in-home care services in Concord and the surrounding area can help!