January 7, 2024
There are plenty of reasons why people tend to become less active with age. Often, it’s because they have health issues, have gained weight or are experiencing pain. Another common reason is feeling unbalanced and worrying about falling.
But as you grow older, exercising becomes more important than ever, and helps both your body and brain stay as healthy as possible. In fact, a recent study found staying physically active was the number one contributor to longevity— and it adds more years to your life, even if you don’t begin exercising until you are older.
10 Great Reasons to Exercise When You’re Older
One of the main benefits of exercise is that it lowers your risk of developing many types of disease, such asdiabetes, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, osteoporosis, and some types of cancers. But that’s not all. Consider the fact exercise helps older people in these ways:
- Increases your metabolism, helps you manage your weight
- Improves your balance, which can reduce the risk of falling
- Strengthens your immune system
- Strengthens yourdigestive system
- Builds muscle mass
- Improves the quality of your sleep
- Improves your brain function
- Gives you an energy boost
- Helps you maintain your independence
- Improves your mood
How to Begin Exercising—or Keep Going
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) recommends two kinds of weekly physical activity to improve health—aerobic exercise and muscle-strengthening. Experts recommend older adults participate in:
- Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise: At least 30 minutes five days a week.
- Muscle-strengthening: Two or more days a week, working all major muscle groups.
Donalsonville Hospital offers physical, occupational, and speech therapy services. If your provider suggests outpatient rehab could help you after a medical event or injury, or to help improve your overall health, ask for a referral to our therapy department! Our Director of Rehabilitation Services, Jamaca Coachman, DPT, will be happy to answer any questions from your provider.