Homecare Assistance with Exercise for Seniors

All seniors need is the right motivation to go for that extra walk or workout. A recent study Health Professionals’ Follow-up Study showed that exercise is as effective as drugs in preventing heart attacks and strokes. The benefits of exercise for seniors are endless. Homecare aides assisting with exercise can improve balance, relieve stress, and reduce the risk of falls. But despite all the known health benefits of exercise, many seniors avoid it due to a lack of motivation.  

1. Set an Example

 

One of the best ways to help your senior get the exercise they need is to lead by example. When you are around them, try to stand up and walk around as often as possible, even if you have to do so while on the phone. You can also try to get them to do the same. When you have a chance to be alone with your senior, suggest going for a walk or taking a bike ride.  

2. Start Small

 

If your senior has never been much of a fan of exercise, don’t be discouraged. You don’t necessarily need to start with jogging or other intense exercises. Instead, try something like biking or walking first. If they enjoy it, you can try a more vigorous exercise like jogging next.  

3. Find an Activity They Enjoy

 

Not every senior wants to go on a long run or take a class at the gym. That’s okay! Everyone has different interests, and it’s important to respect that. If your loved one enjoys gardening, suggest tending to the garden with elder care help. If they enjoy painting, suggest going to the local art museum. If they’re a fan of the outdoors, suggest exploring the park.  

4. Make it Fun

 

Try to make exercise fun for your loved one. If they’re an avid golfer, take them golfing. If they enjoy cooking, get them to help you bake. If they like puzzles, be sure to have some puzzles around for them to play.  

5. Set Goals

 

You don’t necessarily need to have a specific goal in mind for your loved one. However, if you do, it will help them stay motivated. Encourage them to set goals for themselves, and be sure to encourage them to achieve those goals.  

6. Set Goals Together with Homecare Aides

 

Another idea is to set goals with your senior. You, your senior, and the homecare workers can set a goal for the amount of weight they want to lose, or the amount of time they want to spend exercising each week. You can even set a goal for how many times they want to exercise each week.  

7. Make It a Family Activity

 

Exercise is a great way for you and your family to spend time together. Try to find a way to make exercise a family activity. Include your loved one in your family’s walks, hikes, and bike rides.  

8. Get Your Senior Involved in Your Exercise Routine

 

It’s important to find ways to make your exercise routine fun. You can even get your senior to participate in your exercise class if they enjoy it.  

9. Find a Group for Them to Join

 

Your senior may enjoy exercising more if they have a group to join. This is especially true if your senior has a close friend or family member who is exercising with them. Encourage them to join a group so they can encourage each other.  

10. Let Your Loved One Know They’re Doing a Good Job

 

Finally, be sure to let your senior know that you’re proud of them for exercising. Let them know that you think they’re doing a good job, and leave them a note to tell them how proud you are of them.  

Homecare Aides Can be There to Assist and Oversee

 

Setting up a regular exercise routine is important. Your senior’s body needs a regular routine to know what to expect and to stay healthy. Call us today and explore your options for homecare caregivers who can help your senior stay healthy and fit!    

Sources: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/195439

If you or an aging loved-one is considering Homecare Services in Alpharetta GA please contact the caring staff at CaraVita Home Care today. (770) 643-1712