Why You Shouldn’t Stop Exercising When You Get Older
When you get older, it is important to stay fit and healthy.
No matter how old you are, regular exercise is vital for your health.
A common misconception with losing your balance and becoming weak is down to age. But actually, it’s mostly down to your activity levels.
While some people, at any age, will need to be careful with what type of exercise they undertake and ideally seek professional advice to do so, regular exercise has a plethora of health benefits.
Whether you’re in a nursing home or sat a desk all day – it’s important to stay active. A simple walk to town or even attending a dance class, exercising doesn’t have to be boring.
There are plenty of different types of clubs for the elderly, or any age in fact!
Once you start, you’ll find yourself enjoying it and feeling like a different person.
Did you know, exercise can…..
Increase life span
It’s not just smoking in the lead for affecting life span… Now a sedentary lifestyle and obesity are coming up front.
By taking part in any form of exercise, whether it be a sport or swimming, can significantly reduce your risk of developing obesity-related conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Studies conducted by the NHS show that exercise can lower your risk of early death by up to 30%.
Prevent or delay disease
In some cases, exercise can be an effective solution to many chronic diseases, with the help and advice from medical professionals, of course.
According to the NHS, exercise can reduce your risk of major illnesses, such as type 2 diabetes and cancer by up to 50%.
Reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack
Any form of exercise that raises the heart rate, will increase blood flow to the heart and boost your overall health. Exercise can reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack by up to 50%.
Better bone density
According to The National Osteoporosis Society, one in two women and one in five men will break a bone due to osteoporosis.
Any form of exercise, high or low intensity, can help increase the strength of your bones. You also reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis and fractures.
Reduced risk of developing dementia
Unfortunately, there is no evidence to suggest that we can prevent dementia completely, but studies have shown that we can reduce the development of it. One of these being a healthy lifestyle.
Along with hearing loss and isolation, a sedentary lifestyle is among one of the factors of the development of dementia. Regular exercise will help improve cognitive abilities.
Prevent falls
By taking part in regular exercise you are making your body and bones stronger and more likely to withstand a fall.
The World Health Organisation say regular exercise can reduce the risk of having a hip fracture by 40%.
Happiness, confidence and independence
A study by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society showed that exercise training participation significantly proved the quality of life of the elderly subjects involved, as well as improve their functional reach, balance and fear of falling.
Don’t just assume because you’re getting older that you can’t exercise. Keeping active is especially important as you get older, with a plethora of both mental and physical benefits for a longer, more prosperous life.
There are several compelling reasons why you shouldn't stop exercising as you get older. Regular physical activity offers numerous benefits for older adults, both physically and mentally. Here are some reasons why exercise is crucial for aging individuals:
- Maintains Physical Health: Regular exercise helps maintain and improve overall physical health. It helps strengthen muscles and bones, improving balance and reducing the risk of falls and fractures. Exercise also promotes cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, and improves joint flexibility.
- Enhances Cognitive Function: Studies have shown that exercise has a positive impact on cognitive function and can help reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline and dementia. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, stimulates the growth of new neurons, and improves memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
- Manages Chronic Conditions: Exercise plays a vital role in managing and preventing chronic conditions commonly associated with aging, such as heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and arthritis. It can help control blood sugar levels, improve cardiovascular fitness, maintain healthy weight, and reduce joint pain and stiffness.
- Boosts Mental Health: Regular exercise has significant mental health benefits. It helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are natural mood elevators. Exercise also promotes better sleep, reduces stress, and enhances overall psychological well-being.
- Maintains Independence and Functional Abilities: By improving strength, balance, and flexibility, exercise helps older adults maintain their independence and functional abilities. It allows individuals to perform daily tasks more easily, such as climbing stairs, carrying groceries, or getting in and out of chairs, reducing the risk of reliance on others or assistive devices.
- Social Engagement: Participating in exercise programs, group classes, or team sports provides opportunities for social interaction and engagement. This social aspect of exercise contributes to emotional well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation or loneliness, which can be common among older adults.
- Longer Life Expectancy: Numerous studies have shown a positive association between regular exercise and increased life expectancy. Engaging in physical activity has been linked to a lower risk of premature death from various causes, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and respiratory diseases.
It's important to note that older adults should consult with their healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine, especially if they have any underlying health conditions. They can provide guidance on the appropriate type and intensity of exercise based on an individual's health status and capabilities.