Seniors living in a senior community get to experience all the benefits of community living. But, as we age, staying active and getting the regular exercise that we need can become more and more challenging. Thankfully, there are many options for exercises that are low-impact and not physically taxing on the body. So, how do seniors stay active in a senior living community? Letâs take a quick look at some of the best and most convenient ways for seniors to stay active in their communities.
Walking
While it is certainly an obvious choice, walking is one of the best all-around activities to help keep active when living in a senior living community. Walking is easy on the knees, can be tailored to any desired speed and distance, and can be done almost anywhere. Going for a walk is also a great way for seniors to get some fresh air and enjoy the outdoors. Many senior living communities have nature trails or paved walking paths that make for smooth, enjoyable walks for senior adults.
Walking also provides the opportunity to spend time with friends and family. Going on a group walk with others facilitates community, conversation, and exercise when living in a senior community. Like-minded seniors can develop routine walking plans and habits that help them stay consistently active while also deepening friendships and building community.
Full Body Stretching Exercises
Stretching is another common and effective way for seniors living in a senior community to stay active. Routine stretching is also known to reduce the risk of common injuries and improve all-around mobility. Starting and ending the day with a slow and gentle stretching routine is a simple, accessible exercise for seniors.
Simple stretching exercises can be done sitting or standing, and can also be done virtually anywhere. This makes stretching a very convenient exercise activity for seniors living in a senior community. Seniors of all ages and mobility can benefit from stretching exercises, and the convenience of stretching makes it a great option to help keep seniors active when in a senior living community.
Yoga
A popular choice for seniors living in a senior community is yoga. Oftentimes, senior living communities will even host group yoga classes. This makes for a convenient activity, not requiring seniors to have to travel anywhere in order to stay active. Yoga is a great way to be active, stretch, and exercise without risking injury. The low impact nature of yoga makes it accessible for seniors of all ages and mobility levels.
Group yoga classes are also a great choice for seniors in a senior community because they allow for community building. Joining a yoga class with friends makes the entire experience of staying active more enjoyable for seniors. In this way, yoga is not only good for the physical health of seniors, but also for their mental health and relational health.
Water Aerobics
When accessible, exercising in a pool is a fantastic way for seniors to stay active while not putting stress on their joints. The reduced gravity effect in water enables increased mobility, reduces stress and strain on joints, and helps seniors participate in fun activities they may not otherwise be able to conduct.Â
For some seniors, light swimming is also a favorite form of exercise. Swimming is easy on the joints and makes for a great physical activity for seniors. When a pool is accessible, swimming and water aerobics become wonderful options for seniors to stay active and have fun without putting their health at risk.
Balance Exercises
Another way that seniors can stay active when living in a senior community is by partaking in balance exercises. This can include trying to balance on one foot for extended periods of time, as well as walking heel-to-toe. These, and other balance exercises, help strengthen stabilizing muscles like those in the legs, ankles, and feet of seniors. This not only keeps seniors active, but it also serves to help reduce the risk of falling. This can make balance exercises an effective and practical exercise for older seniors when living in a senior community.
Stay Active While Enjoying the Benefits of a Senior Living Community at Silver Comet Village
Silver Comet Village in Powder Springs, GA is a senior living community that prioritizes the quality of life of all senior community members. Our caring team of professionals serves senior residents in order to enable them to live independently, while not having to stress or worry about many of the day-to-day tasks that can become burdensome when living on your own.
The Silver Comet Village community is committed to keeping our residents active and healthy. We would love to have you or your loved one join our community here in Powder Springs. If youâd like to come and see our community for yourself, you can schedule a visit online today! For more information about our community, including our independent living, assisted living, respite care, and memory care services, contact us today.
