Hello Everyone, I hope all are doing well.Today's blog is regarding Elderly Fitness.
The definition of fitness for different age group varies.So when we talk about 'Elderly Fitness' we are looking at ''A person's ability to move around and to do routine activities like lifting,bending,walking, playing with grandchildren, etc with ease, thereby living a quality life independently as much as possible"
As we age there are certain things which comes as part & parcel of getting old like decline in our physical ability,cognitive ability,weight gain,etc.However, we can age gracefully by just being physically ,mentally & socially active,as major changes associated with aging may be simply due to lack of physical activity.
In spite of our body showing the signs of aging and knowing that we need to be active, we don't do much about it. So, what are the barriers? Some of the common misconceptions or myths that prompt older people to abandon physical activity include:
Myth 1:There's no point in exercising. I am going to get old anyway or I have worked hard throughout my life and now it's time to sit back and relax.
Fact: Exercise has countless benefits for all the ages including a healthier heart, stronger bones and improved flexibility. But for seniors, there are additional benefits of reduced risk related to chronic diseases like heart diseases, diabetes,Alzheimer, dementia, certain type of cancer, high blood pressure, obesity etc.
Myth 2: Exercise puts me at risk of falling down
Fact: Regular exercise by building muscle strength and stamina, prevents loss of bone mass and improves balance which reduces risk of falling down.
Myth 3: I am too old to start exercising
Fact: No one is ever too old to get moving and improve own's health. If you have never exercised before or it's been a while still I would say just begin with gentle activities and build up from there.
Myth 4: I am too weak or have too many aches and pains
Fact: Movements help us to improve flexibility, strength and self-confidence thereby reducing or even managing regular aches and pains with less efforts. The key is to start off gently.
Any elderly individual should opt for the exercise routine which focuses on:Strength, Flexibility, Balance & Cardiac Endurance at least 2 times/week under expert guidance.
