As they progress in age, seniors may experience weakened arms due to the loss of muscle mass. As a caregiver, you can assist your senior loved one in performing one or more of the following arm-strengthening activities.
1.Gardening
Pulling a water hose, hoeing out weeds, and picking ripe fruits and vegetables all require the use of different arm muscles. Seniors often have so much fun watching their plants grow they may not realize their arm muscles are being strengthened in the process.
2. Swimming
Many seniors enjoy spending time in the pool. Swimming laps can help aging adults maintain both strength and flexibility in their arms. The buoyancy of the water supports aching muscles. Alternatively, you can encourage your loved one to join a water exercise class for seniors.
3. Horseback Riding
Many seniors enjoy exploring nearby trails while horseback riding. This is a fun exercise for the arms because of the constant need to hold the reins to guide the horse. If possible, encourage your loved one to take care of the horse, as this activity uses different muscles and can provide a great workout.
4. Dancing
Dancing is another way to exercise the arms. A variety of dance styles, from the tango to Western swing, require using the arms quite extensively, which can help seniors regain, build, and retain arm strength.
When your loved one needs transportation to dance classes, medical appointments, or activities at a local senior center, a home caregiver can be a great resource. Huntsville elder care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
4. Fishing
Load up a rod and reel and go fishing with your loved one. Let him or her carry the equipment to a favorite fishing spot, as it’s great exercise for the arms. Casting encourages your loved one to use a different set of muscles. The rewards will be a great fish fry and increased arm strength.
5. Golfing
Playing golf is a great way to strengthen the arm muscles because swinging golf clubs requires using a variety of muscles in the upper body. Instead of riding in a golf cart or getting help from a caddy, your loved one should try carrying the bag for a few holes every time he or she is on the course. This additional activity can do even more to increase your parent’s arm strength
7. Doing Elbow Curls
Have your loved one sit with his or her hands covering the ears with the elbows pointed straight out, then get him or her to bring the elbows together. See if he or she can repeat the motion 30 times in a row.
A professional caregiver can help your loved one exercise safely in the comfort of home. In-home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live alone.
8. Walking with Arm Motions
If your loved one likes to walk, encourage him or her to add arm motions to the walk. Ask your loved one to start with the arms against the waist with the elbows bent. As your loved one moves the left foot forward, he or she should move the right arm forward at the same time while keeping it bent, then return it to the side. Next, ask your loved one to move the right foot and left arm forward at the same time. Keep changing until the walk is done.
Some seniors need assistance with a variety of daily activities, including getting regular exercise. Huntsville respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed. To hire a dedicated caregiver, call Home Care Assistance at (256) 716-9940 today.