Staying Fit and Healthy Later in Life
As the body ages, it undergoes a series of degenerative changes. Lack of physical exercise can lead to muscular atrophy, in which muscles shrink and weaken from disuse. It’s also crucial for seniors to maintain healthy circulation by keeping their cardiovascular systems in tip-top shape. The National Institutes of Health recommend four general types of senior citizen exercises that greatly benefit active adults.
Stretching exercises increase freedom of movement and reduce the likelihood of joint pain. Endurance routines such as walking, biking and swimming keep the heart pumping at a healthy pace. Strength exercises improve metabolism and build muscles. Lastly, balance routines decrease the odds of suffering from a broken hip – one of the most dangerous risks faced by the elderly.