Helping A Senior Improve Their Physical Fitness

Everybody knows that as we get older, it can get more difficult to move, and energy levels aren’t what they used to be. However, staying physically active is a great way to slow down the aging process, and to keep the body running at optimal levels. And even though doctors let seniors know the importance of physical exercise, some seniors remain reluctant to dive in. Here are some ways to help a senior improve their physical fitness:

• Let them know that they can take baby steps. Too often, when people think about physical fitness they think about marathon runners and triathlon athletes. Of course this idea will be daunting for seniors, so make sure they know that they can take baby steps in their progress. Also, let them know that improving their diet doesn’t mean eating “rabbit” food all the time - a simple swap of one piece of junk food for an apple or vegetable is a great place to start.

• Regular exercise: Regular exercise should be encouraged and if you take part in it, too, it’ll be more fun and easier to accomplish. Suggest group activities that the family can enjoy like hikes, walks, bike rides, even yard work. By increasing the oxygen level to the muscles and the brain, the body is renewing itself and warding off disease.

• Encourage them to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day. It can be easy for seniors to get dehydrated because the sense of being thirsty decreases as we age. Make sure they keep a water bottle nearby, and that they are continually refilling it. Hydration means protection from viral and bacterial infections, and raises immunity levels.

• Encourage them with praise. Changing lifestyles can be difficult for anyone. Incorporating exercise and eating right might seem like a fruitless path (at first) so encourage them when you can, even when the praise is small, it is meaningful.

Always Best Care has been North America’s premier senior caregiver for the past 20 years. Seniors living in the North Vancouver area, who are interested in home care in West Vancouver, can call the Always Best Care N Vancouver location at 778-945-3010 or email them at hhamidi@abc-seniors.com to set up a free care consultation. A professional care coordinator will be happy to discuss in-home care in Burnaby, as well as free referrals to assisted living communities. They look forward to talking with you!