OMAHA, Neb., Sept. 4, 2018 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Aging often comes with decreased physical activity and an increasingly sedentary lifestyle. Research suggests that sitting for long periods of time can have a number of negative effects on an individual's overall health, including an increased risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, cancer, diabetes and premature death.
To reduce negative health outcomes, World Health Organization (WHO) recommends older adults do at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. According to WHO, adults who exercise have lower risk of disease, healthier body mass, lower risk of falling and better cognitive function.
"For older adults, staying active can increase the overall quality of life in many ways, including reduced anxiety, a decreased risk of chronic disease and frailty," said Lakelyn Hogan, gerontologist at Home Instead Senior Care. "It's never too late to start a new exercise regimen, and it can drastically impact the health and happiness of an older adult."
Home Instead Senior Care offers the following tips for incorporating exercise into daily routines:
1. Get moving. To combat negative health impacts from sitting, researchers recommend five minutes of walking for every 30 minutes of sitting. Time activity to ensure it's about 2.5 hours a week, or 35 minutes a day.
2. Take a walk. Walking helps sustain an overall healthy life and reduces psychological symptoms like anxiety, stress and depression.
3. Babysit. Researchers found grandparents who cared for grandchildren had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders. The social interaction, physical activity and supervision that come with babysitting might also reduce stress levels.
4. Work around the house. Establishing a cleaning routine is a good way to be active while also creating a sense of purpose.
5. Join a wellness program. Consider following a fitness program. Aerobic and strength training are good for those who suffer from chronic disease and can help increase flexibility while strengthening muscles.
6. Mix it up. Adding variety to exercise prevents burning out quickly. Take a walk in a new location or pick up a new leisure activity, such as gardening, to be active and have fun.
7. Don't overdo it. While it's important to remain physically active, it's just as important not to over-exercise. Speak with your doctor to determine the best way to stay active.
For access to more information on how seniors can overcome the challenges of remaining active and details on healthy aging for seniors, visit caregiverstress.com.
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ABOUT HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE
The Home Instead Senior Care network provides personalized care, support and education to help enhance the lives of aging adults and their families. Today, this network is the world's leading provider of in-home care services for seniors, with more than 1,100 independently owned and operated franchises that provide more than 70 million hours of care throughout the United States and 11 other countries. Local Home Instead Senior Care offices employ approximately 70,000 CAREGiversSM worldwide who provide basic support services that enable seniors to live safely and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible. The Home Instead Senior Care network works with clients and their family members to meet varied individual needs. Services span the care continuum – from providing personal care to specialized Alzheimer's care and hospice support. Also available are family caregiver education and support resources.
SOURCE Home Instead Senior Care
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