But shouldn’t old people sit in rocking chairs all day and torture the young with tales of how they walked four miles through a snowstorm to get to school?
In short, no. Numerous studies have shown that exercise reduces the risk of death from certain cancers, heart disease and stroke. It also reduces symptoms of depression and mild cognitive impairment. What’s more, regular exercise increases functional flexibility and strength — the traits that enable Dad to do the everyday things that make independent living possible, from reaching into a tall closet to shoveling a walkway. Therefore, your care plan for aging parents should include safe and effective training.
Take one step at a time.
Perhaps the last time Dad worked out was the last time he mowed his lawn – 15 years ago. If you’re caring for an aging parent, it’s critical that he or she get regular exercise. The first step is to make sure your loved one is healthy enough for a workout by talking to his or her doctor. The doctor may order an electrocardiogram (EKG) to find out if the body can withstand exercise.
Once Dad gets the doctor’s clearance, remind your parents to go slow. Dad doesn’t need to take up kickboxing or swim the English Channel to reap the benefits of a workout. For most seniors, walking around the block is a good start to a healthy elder care solution.
Teach an old dog new tricks.
A study from the University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that seniors who played Nintendo Wii exercise games for 35 minutes a day, three days a week, had a reduced risk of depression. Exercise video games are proving to be so effective at improving fitness that nursing homes and rehabilitation centers across the country are adding them to their aged care programs.
Because video game systems can be played at home, they can be an ideal elder care solution for seniors who stay indoors. If you care for elderly parents at home, consider investing in one of these.
If video games don’t appeal to your aging parent, encourage him or her to start a new exercise program. For example, the ancient Chinese martial art of Tai Chi has been shown to relieve pain and increase range of motion in seniors.
Classes and workshops in Tai Chi or any other practice can also encourage another important part of a good life: social interaction. In fact, research has shown that building strong social connections can add a few years to a lifespan, making it an ideal solution for aged care. If you’re caring for an aging parent, encourage him or her to take advantage of the stronger body and increased social networks that come with group workouts.
Get in the game.
Don’t just sit on your butt while your mom goes around the block. Taking care of yourself while taking care of your elderly parents is important to keep your mind and body healthy. You will benefit from the stress-relieving properties of exercise and build a healthier body in the process. Choose an activity that you enjoy, such as taking a walk or practicing yoga. Remember that when you are healthy, you are a better caregiver and a stronger part of your parent’s elder care solution.
Caring for aging parent plans can be challenging, from scheduling a doctor’s appointment to giving medication reminders. Make sure exercise doesn’t slip through the cracks – it’s an important part of any family’s aged care solution.
Exercise and your elder care solution plan
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