4 Tips For Staying Safe While Exercising For Seniors With Limited Mobility

Posted on: 20 July 2017

If you are a senior with limited mobility, or are helping take care of a senior with limit mobility, it is still important to make sure that you get exercise. Exercise is beneficial for your health at all stages of life, including as you age. Here are four tips for staying safe while exercising as a senior with limited mobility.

#1 Stretch First

Before you start working out, you should always stretch. Stretching will help increase your flexibility as well as your range of motion. Stretching before you work out will help limit the risk that you injure yourself while you are being active. Just do some basic flexibility stretches, such as a neck and should stretch, before you start working out. These stretch can be done while holding onto a chair or other stable object for adding stability.

#2 Stay Hydrated

Just because you are not running a marathon does not mean that water is not important. Whenever you work out, make sure that you bring a water bottle with you so that you can stay hydrated. This will help you enjoy your exercise more and will help ensure that you don't have to deal with crazy muscle cramps and soreness after you exercise. It will also help ensure that you don't suffer heat stroke while working out as well.

If you need a break, it is okay to stop your exercise or set to the side of the glass to get some water.

#3 Keep Moving

As a senior with limited mobility, it is important that you keep moving. Try to work out in a class, such as at Aspen Hill Club, or on your home every day. Even a few minutes of activity can help improve your overall physical and mental health. Make it a priority to find a way to get moving every day. It can help you feel happier and in a better mood. Daily movement can help you sleep better and increase your energy levels throughout the day. It can even help decrease health risks associated with various diseases as well.

#4 Keep it Light

You don't need to do cross-fit or other really intense exercises for it to be helpful. Some great exercises for seniors with limited mobility include: water aerobics, light weight lifting, Thai Chi, and yoga for seniors. You can often find many community centers and exercise facilities that offer these classes specifically designed and structured to cater to the physical needs of seniors. These classes will help you exercise in a safe and healthy manner that is mindful of your physical limitations. This classes are also a great way to socialize and increase your social interactions as well.

Exercise is important, even as a senior with limited mobility. Just make sure that you stretch, drink lots of water, incorporate movement into your daily routine and participate in classes and activities specifically designed to cater to your physical fitness needs. 

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