The New Year inevitably brings resolutions, and what better resolution than to take steps to improve our health? Although fitness is important for people of all ages, it becomes crucial for seniors whose muscles and joints begin to weaken and lead to an increase in the risk of falls and a loss of mobility. Orange County in-home care can help seniors stay mobile and healthy in their homes by assisting with manageable exercises that can make a huge difference in their independence and well-being.

Many falls happen as a result of shuffling. Trying to walk on deteriorated muscles can cause tripping, which can lead to broken bones and other injuries. If your senior loved one is on the verge of becoming immobile, an Orange County in-home care agency can help with exercises to improve balance, strength, flexibility, and endurance. The type of exercises will depend on the level of care needed and can include hip extensions to strengthen the buttock and lower back muscles, and side leg raises and hip flexion to strengthen hip and thigh muscles.

There are many activities that should be included as part of a senior’s fitness regimen. But before beginning any kind of exercise, it’s important to first consider his or her physical and mental limitations, interests, and accessibility of the activity.

Once the fitness level is determined, an Orange County in-home care agency can implement a variety of low-impact exercises and activities. Stretching exercises help the senior keep his or her body flexible and move more easily, as well as improve circulation. Balance exercises reduce the risk of falls and increase agility. Endurance exercises such as walking or dancing improve the heart rate and breathing. Strength exercises are important for building muscle and reducing age-related muscle loss.

Before starting a senior fitness routine, an Orange County in-home care agency will recommend taking several actions to avoid injuries and improve performance. They include:

Stretching: Stretching before even moderate exercise will warm-up the muscles and prevent injury.

Strengthening: Lifting a moderate amount of weights for both the upper and lower body will increase the strength in muscles that would have otherwise been vulnerable to falls.

Balancing: Balancing exercises can also prevent falls by standing on one foot while waiting in lines. Balance can also be improved by placing one foot in front of the other (heel to toe) while walking.

Endurance: Walking, swimming, or any other aerobic exercise done on a consistent basis will build endurance.

Breathing: Breathing properly is essential for strength exercises where irregular breathing can cause changes in blood pressure.

It’s impossible to overestimate the rewards of senior fitness and the many positive physical and mental health benefits it provides. Physical exercise is proven to prevent chronic disease and illness, help maintain or lose weight, and increase flexibility, balance, and mobility. The mental benefits of exercising are just as important, and include stimulating the brain, increasing sleep, and improving mood and self-confidence.

Results of exercises can begin to show right away, regardless of age or physical condition. Better health doesn’t require strenuous workouts. It just takes a little effort, will-power, and ability to engage in moderate exercise to promote better health and improve quality of life.

Learn more about senior fitness by contacting an Orange County in-home care agency. Visit www.CambrianHomecare.com or call 877.422.2270.