Senior mobility is very important as a person ages. The older we get, the more our bodies change. Things slow down, and aches and pains aren’t uncommon. Sometimes these are minor issues, but other times, they can be severe and impact quality of life.
Mobility is closely tied to these factors. Moving around helps build strength and stamina. It improves balance. All these things are essential in preventing a fall injury.
Movement also gets the lungs working and the heart pumping, which is beneficial for overall health.
Mobility is directly related to how independent a person can be. Being able to move on your own means you can do more things without help.
Research has shown that active older adults spend less time in the hospital and tend to live longer. The American Heart Association reported that seniors who meet activity guidelines are 67% less likely to die of any cause compared to sedentary seniors.
There is also an emotional effect that comes with staying active. Seniors who are mobile have an easier time socializing. They are more likely to maintain relationships that are good for mental and emotional health.
Isolation can lead to depression, which is shown to have a negative effect on physical health and longevity.
Learning how to ease into a more active senior lifestyle isn’t difficult. What can you do to maintain good mobility for as long as possible?
Stay Social and Maintain Good Mental Health
Staying social encourages good physical and mental health. Spending time with others requires some movement, whether you have to walk down a hall to your neighbor’s room or travel to a whole new location.
Spending time with the people we love is great for our mental health. Seniors with good mental health are more likely to keep moving. Depression can cause a person to withdraw, which often leads to less activity.
Doing things to keep your mind healthy and your heart happy will make staying mobile easier.
Exercise Your Cognitive Function Daily
Do things that exercise your cognitive function daily. This can include seeing friends, but should also involve other activities, especially on days when you may not be visiting.
We use our brains to navigate. The brain has an important role in maintaining balance when we move. Keeping the mind sharp will help protect mobility.
There are many fun ways you can give your cognitive abilities a workout. Some of the most popular include:
- Crossword puzzles
- Sudoku puzzles
- Jigsaw puzzles
- Reading and writing
- Learning a language
- Strategy games like chess
With more seniors owning mobile phones, it’s even easier to access activities and games that work your brain. Many of the items included in the list above can be found in the form of an app on a mobile device.
Eat a Nutritious Diet Every Day
Nutrition has a direct impact on energy and body function. Give your body the fuel it needs to work optimally.
Seniors in assisted living have the benefit of built-in meal plans. Facilities like Woodhaven Retirement Community offer nutritious meals made with fresh ingredients. Residents never have to buy groceries or cook. Our staff handles meal prep, serving, and can assist with dining as needed.
Eating healthy long-term is a great way to promote ongoing mobility.
Add Physical Activity to Your Day
Are you exercising every day? Your daily routine should include at least a short workout session.
Adults age 65 and older should include activities that build strength, flexibility, and balance at least twice each week. They should also try to perform 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. This should be based on your ability.
Trying to reduce the amount of time you spend lying down or sitting is also ideal. Staying on your feet keeps you mobile.
Choose Senior-Friendly Activities
All exercises and activities you choose should be suitable for you based on age and physical ability. Each senior has their own health concerns and limitations. One 80-year-old may have no problem going for a walk, but another senior of the same age may require assistance.
Never push yourself to perform activities that are risky or dangerous. Take safety precautions to avoid a fall injury.
Low-impact exercises that don’t put too much stress on joints are usually recommended. Even light activity like slow walking from one room to the next can be beneficial.
Talk to your doctor about which activities are safe for you.
Try New Hobbies to Encourage Movement
Physical movement is a good thing for seniors, but it doesn’t have to be boring exercises. It can also be done in the form of a new hobby or activity. Trying new things is also good for mental wellness.
This is one of the reasons why seniors in assisted living should take up gardening this spring. It’s an easy, low-cost hobby that’s offered by many senior communities. It uses muscle movements as well as dexterity. There is something uplifting about nurturing a seed or seedling into a beautiful flower or delicious vegetable.
Mobility affects overall happiness and physical comfort. The more we move, the fewer aches and pains we have and the more capable we are to engage with the world around us.
