Senior exercise programs, whether focused on Tai Chi or walking, are designed to help older adults stay strong. They're also designed to provide a layer of confidence by helping seniors improve their balance and ability. From there, an older adult will experience a better overall sense of well-being, helping them move confidently.
When you hear the words "aging gracefully," you might think it means you have to slow down. However, this couldn't be farther from the truth.
Aging gracefully is actually about staying steady and strong while being completely confident in how you move through balance exercises. This is something seniors in Summit Place of South Park, located in Charlotte, NC, a city close to Matthews, Fort Mill, SC, Concord, and Huntersville, need to focus on.
This is why senior exercise programs are so important. They focus on movement and balance, which in turn help maintain a senior's mobility and prevent falls, helping keep seniors safe while giving their loved ones peace of mind.
As a person ages, balance gradually declines. It happens due to:
Even seemingly insignificant things, like how a person walks or stands, can make getting up or down stairs feel more challenging. Fortunately, it doesn't matter how old a senior is -- they can improve their balance with proper training with movement support for seniors.
It doesn't take much with Charlotte, NC, wellness programs; it simply takes consistent movement over time. Eventually, a person's body learns how to respond to changes in their position. They're also able to stabilize themselves better and coordinate their movements, building confidence.
From there, they experience a reduction in overall fear of falling. When a person is afraid of a fall, they may become less active. The less physically active a person is, the greater the chance they might actually fall.
Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all program seniors can use to improve their movement and balance. Here are some examples of active aging routines:
Tai Chi offers gentle, flowing activities. These are ideal for improving balance.
What's great about this is that it strengthens not only the legs and core muscles but also helps keep a person's mind sharp. Seniors can participate in Tai Chi activities and events as a community.
Yoga is ideal for improving posture. It enhances a person's flexibilityand overall stability. It also reduces stress.
As with any exercise program, always consult your physician before starting to ensure it's safe.
This doesn't mean weight training in a gym every day of the week. Strength training for mobility in assisted living can be as simple as a light resistance workout a few days a week.
When a person has strong leg and core muscles, they may benefit from more control over their body. This, in turn, leads to better overall balance. Consider a program that uses:
For example, you might try squats or heel raises if you're looking for something beneficial.
It doesn't matter if you're walking outdoors or on a treadmill -- any regular walking activity is great for improving joint flexibility while enhancing overall endurance. You can combine walking with some balance challenges.
For example, as you walk, you might turn quickly or change direction, as long as you feel comfortable.
You can do things as simple as standing on one foot or even walking from your heel to your toe. Additionally, it's a great idea to try shifting your weight from one side to the other, as these activities can help train coordination.
Absolutely. Balance is a skill, which means you can improve it through practice.
Yes, the body naturally loses some muscle tone and coordination as a person ages, but when you move regularly, you can help reverse much of this decline.
Progress varies from one person to the next, but on average, it can take between four and six weeks to improve your balance -- so long as you're consistent. Keep in mind that you want to start gradually and track your progress accordingly. Don't push yourself, and if you ever feel any strain, stop and call your doctor immediately.
Always check with them before starting any type of new exercise routine.
You don't need a gym to improve your balance. You might walk heel-to-toe across the room or even practice slow side steps while holding onto a counter for support.
The goal is to try small challenges that engage the core and leg muscles. This is important because these muscles help stabilize your body.
Although seniors can do some of these exercises independently, it's important to join a supervised program. This ensures that you're using proper form while exercising. Listening to an instructor can improve your safety and ultimately your motivation.
It's best if seniors participate in a balance program at least three times a week. Many communities offer daily sessions, allowing participants to exercise at a time that works best for their schedules. What matters most is consistency -- even if it's just a few small bursts of exercise throughout the day.
At Summit Place of South Park, we encourage all our residents to move in a way that feels comfortable and organic. This not only allows older adults to socialize with friends through our Dimensions Health and Fitness program, but it also helps them maintain better overall health. Our residents also enjoy access to a secure outdoor courtyard.
If you're ready to help your loved one live life to the fullest with senior exercise programs and more, contact us today!