Exercise for the Elderly
Longevity Exercise Physiology and Personal Training Edgecliff, Lindfield, Marrickville, Randwick, Drummoyne, Balmain and Bella Vista today discuss the benefits of exercise for the elderly.
As Exercise Physiologists a lot of the clients we see are often retired and suffer from a few health ailments, with mobility issues and maintaining their functional independence being one of them. One of my goals when working with the elderly population is to ensure they have an improved quality of life and can participate in their hobbies and activities such as travel, spending time doing social activities and not feeling limited by their health.
I do see that elderly people are sometimes hesitant to commence exercise because they are not aware of what options they have, or think that they can’t participate in any gym based exercise as it is too strenuous.
There are many benefits to exercise in older age and it’s never too late to start. Any person of any age can benefit from regular exercise, and as qualified exercise specialists we are trained to find the right ‘dose’ and frequency of exercise for you (just like prescription medication). Some benefits of exercising in older age are:
- Reduced risk of falls through improved balance
- Reduced risk of fractures
- Improved muscular strength and endurance
- Improved cognition and memory
- Improved mental health
- Social engagement, particularly for those who are isolated
- Management of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and weight
- Reduced risk of cancer and stroke
I do see that elderly people are sometimes hesitant to commence exercise because they are not aware of what options they have, or think that they can’t participate in any gym based exercise as it is too strenuous. However being a trained exercise physiologist we are always able to find the correct type of resistance and aerobic exercise. Other options of regular exercise include walking, swimming, cycling, yoga and pilates classes or even Tai Chi.
If you or someone you know would benefit from regular exercise inside or out of the gym please speak to your exercise physiologist about advice on where to start.
Contact Longevity Personal Training and Exercise Physiology Edgecliff, Lindfield, Marrickville, Randwick, Drummoyne, Balmain, Bella Vista on 1300 964 002 to enquire today.
Written by Susannah Mah-Chut
