Doing regular physical activity is important no matter what age you are. Moving your body and getting your blood pumping to benefit you not just physically but also mentally. However, keeping up with regular physical activities can get more challenging as we age.
The Importance of Fitness in Senior Homes
As we get older, changes in our bodies can limit and slow down our movement. However, this should not stop independent and assisted living residents from trying different ways to get physical. According to the CDC, older adults ages 65 and older only need 150 minutes (about 2 and a half hours) per week of moderate-intensity activity. It only takes 30 minutes of physical movement a day for 5 days to keep you healthy and strong.
Luckily, fitness programs are integrated into leisure & recreation programs of retirement communities. These benefit older adults in a variety of ways:
- Keep bodies strong, flexible, and mobile
- Maintain healthy bones and joints
- Improve balance
- Enhance mood and mental wellbeing
- Reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, stroke, and heart disease
Protecting Heart Health in Oakville’s Best Retirement Homes
One of the best benefits of physical activities and exercise is keeping various heart conditions at bay. This is crucial, especially since 1 out of 12 people in Canada aged 20 and over live with diagnosed heart disease, according to data from the Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System (CCDSS).
Regular exercise for independent and assisted living residents strengthens the heart and improves cardiovascular health. It controls the risk factors for heart disease. For instance, exercise improves how muscles can pull oxygen from the body. This reduces the need for the heart to pump more blood to the muscles.
At senior homes like Livita Queens Avenue, we give importance to the health and wellness of our active seniors. We provide more than top-notch amenities, superb dining options, and professional housekeeping services. We also offer fitness programs that keep our residents active, daily.
Here are the top 5 heart-healthy exercises we do:
1. Walking – one of the easiest exercises to do daily. This increases your heart rate and lower stress levels. It can also be done indoors and outdoors.
2. Weightlifting – perfect for those who are not fond of cardio. Properly lifting weights increases lean muscle mass throughout the body. This reduces the pressure on your arteries, reducing the chances of heart-related issues.
3. Dancing – another cardio exercise that is fun and exciting to do. You are free to move at your own pace and get the exercise you need.
4. Yoga – helps strengthen and tone your muscles. It is also a calming activity that lowers your blood pressure.
5. Water Exercises – this improves your blood pressure, heart rate, and how your body uses oxygen. There are various exercises you can do, from swimming to water aerobics, and more.
Oakville’s Best Retirement Home Keeping You Healthy & Strong
At Livita Queens Avenue, we uphold the belief that a well-rounded lifestyle leads to a more fulfilling existence. Our commitment extends beyond the mere provision of essential services such as professional housekeeping. We take pride in providing a diverse range of engaging activities that promote an active and healthy lifestyle for our residents.
Want to learn more about our fitness programs, leisure & recreation activities, amenities, and more? Give us a call now or book a tour of the residence today!
