Staying active as you age is very important for both your physical well-being but also your mental well-being. As the sun begins to peek out across the Upper Peninsula, there are tons of ways for seniors to get out and get active this summer while aging in place. Here are just a few ideas.
Go for a Nature Walk
Once the warmer weather of summer arrives and things are in bloom, taking a nature walk in the surrounding outdoors is a perfect way to get out and get a little exercise. Listen to a podcast or music while you walk or even take a book with you to read on a park bench while you soak up the sunshine! Nature walks are a great way for seniors to stay active year-round but especially in the summer when the sun is out. Go in the morning before the heat sets in or in the afternoon after the heat of the day. This is also an activity that you can do in a group or solo, whichever feels best for you and your body.
Practice Tai Chi
Tai Chi is one of the oldest forms of exercise, and people have been practicing it for centuries. Originally used for self-defense, Tai Chi has tons of health benefits, both mental and physical. It is a great option for seniors because it is very easy on the joints and helps practice balance. Studies have also shown that it promotes better sleep and can help alleviate joint or muscle pain.
Tai Chi can be practiced with a group or alone and offers you the option to practice it in a more meditative way or with the company of others in senior care. Another benefit to this tried-and-true exercise form is it can be practiced either indoors or outside in the sunshine!
Take a Group Exercise Class
Taking an exercise class such as water aerobics or yoga with some friends is a great way to stay active as a senior and spend time with friends while in home care. One of the biggest benefits of any group activity is that you can stay motivated and help motivate those around you to continue to stay active together.
A couple of ideas include water aerobics and yoga. Water aerobics is a fun and beneficial way to stay active because it offers a different way to exercise. If yoga is difficult for those with mobility problems, Chair Yoga is a great alternative. While still practicing the art of yoga, you can alter it to most benefit you. Both yoga and water aerobics are easy on the joints and give you the ability to pace yourself as you need. These forms of exercise are great ways to stay active and can be made to fit what your body needs.
Get Out and Enjoy the Summer!
Whether you want to stay active and exercise solo or with a group of people, there are tons of options. At Marquette Home Care, we assist clients within the Marquette area, including Ishpeming, Harvey, Negaunee, Skandia, and Gwinn. Get in touch with us online to learn more or call us at 906-361-8022.
