Ge Str , STAY STRONG! Exercise Tips for Seniors ADVERTISEMENT
T his time of year, the topic of health and wellbeing is top of mind. After being indoors and, for many of us, more sedentary during COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to get moving so that our bodies are as strong and exible as possible. Research has shown that regular aerobic and strength exercises can reduce the risk of falls, maintain healthy muscles and joints, and help reduce blood pressure. At Belmont Village Senior Living, physical activity is part of our Whole Brain Fitness programming. We know exercise does more than strengthen our bodies—it’s an essential element for keeping our brains healthy. Here are some tips to create sustainable habits that you can implement this summer. ENCOURAGE DAILY ACTIVITY! At Belmont Village, many residents participate in small group activities, but it all starts with a little encouragement from our sta . Daily reminders from caregivers, friends and family to participate in physical activities at home or at local senior tness classes can go a long way. During your phone calls or visits, make a point to ask about your loved one’s physical activity level, and if it is low, provide them with a few of these ideas to help stimulate the brain and body. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF LOCAL FITNESS CLASSES Depending on COVID-19 restrictions in your area, you may bene t from in-person tness classes. From chair yoga to aerobics, there are more tness classes to choose from than ever before and many have are speci cally designed for seniors. For those who would rather get t at home, look for videos created by your local YMCA or senior center. Residents at Belmont Village enjoy classes videos from their favorite instructors ranging from weight training to tai chi, activities that are great for whole body health.
BUILD YOUR STRENGTH When we think of exercise videos, many of us think of aerobics. While aerobics are important and should be practiced daily, don’t forget to incorporate strength training into your at-home exercise routine. Strength training doesn’t have to involve lifting heavy weights. Many can be done while sitting down, using bodyweight or objects you can nd around your home, such as water bottles. GET CREATIVE WITH GAMES Not all tness routines need to focus on standard tness classes. You can get creative with what you have at home! One fun activity residents at Belmont Village have enjoyed is kickball bowling. is activity can be replicated at home with a toy ball and plastic cups, and it’s fun for the entire family. GO FOR A WALK Take advantage of the cooler weather to enjoy time in the fresh air. Walking is a great way to reduce restlessness and can even improve your mood. If your loved one must stay indoors, walking around the house and marching in place
can help increase daily step counts. On hot days, walk early in the morning and
remember to stay hydrated! MAINTAIN DEXTERITY
THROUGH ARTS AND CRAFTS Seniors with limited mobility can stay active through arts and crafts, which can help maintain dexterity and cognitive abilities. From knitting to painting, seniors can stay active doing something they enjoy and engage their creativity. At Belmont Village in Cardi by e Sea, La Jolla and Sabre Springs, residents experience unparalleled hospitality, rst rate care and award-winning programming with ocean views. O ering Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care, Belmont Village residents have everything they need at their ngertips—24/7 on-site nurses, a salon, a vibrant calendar of social and educational activities, chef-prepared meals and concierge services.
To learn more visit BelmontVillage.com/SanDiego.
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