By: Kelly Stalnaker, Baywind Medical
January often inspires many of us to recommit to fitness after a season of indulgence and celebration. But taking care of our bodies should be a year-round commitment, a long-term investment towards better health. Research consistently shows the value of staying active every day, especially as we grow older. For seniors, regular physical activity delivers a wide range of important benefits: it boosts mood, helps lower blood pressure, supports fine motor skills, and significantly reduces the risk of falls by improving strength and balance. Staying active can also lower the likelihood of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and dementia.
Beginning a fitness routine may feel daunting, but becoming more active is often easier than it seems. Many effective exercises are completely free and require little to no equipment. Activity can fit into any schedule, and it can be enjoyed solo or with friends. It’s one of the most accessible and rewarding forms of self-care. Seniors have plenty of options for staying active, from walking and swimming to gardening or joining social wellness programs (check out your local senior center). For those who prefer to stay indoors, there are countless ways to keep moving right at home. Online videos offer easy-to-follow workout ideas using everyday household items, making it convenient to stay active anytime and anywhere.
Maintaining good health doesn’t have to be complicated; it can start with just a few simple steps. First and foremost, consult your physician prior to beginning any fitness program. Seek guidance from your healthcare professional by openly discussing your plans and goals, to ensure your approach is safe. You may also consider meeting with a personal trainer who can design a strategy that fits your needs. Set realistic goals for yourself, increase activity gradually and schedule movement into your week to help you stay consistent. Invite a friend or loved one to join you! It can boost motivation and build accountability.
Living an active lifestyle is beneficial at any age, but it is especially important for seniors. Regular movement can reduce your risk of chronic health conditions, and improve your mood, strength and balance. At Baywind Medical (formerly J&B Medical), we carry a variety of products to support older adults in reaching their health and wellness goals: resistance bands, pedal exercisers, bamboo socks, walking aids and even recovery tools to help with post-workout muscle soreness. Stop by 540 E. John Sims Pkwy. in Niceville, Monday through Friday from 9-5, to see how we can help you on your fitness journey. As Kenneth Cooper, pioneer of aerobics, once said, “We do not stop moving because we grow old; we grow old because we stop moving.”
