Keeping seniors active is a vital part of preserving mobility and overall physical health. However, it’s important to note that routine exercise also provides a wealth of emotional benefits. Exercise can be as simple as taking regular walks, performing a series of low-impact activities in the living room, or going for a swim. Following are several advantages aging adults can gain by simply getting up and getting active.
Releases “Feel-Good” Chemicals
Exercising results in the release of powerful “feel-good” chemicals called endorphins. These chemicals naturally elevate the mood. For aging adults with Parkinson’s disease (PD), exercise is especially important, as it can stimulate natural dopamine and serotonin production. This is great for staving off depression and anxiety, and it can even assist in the control of PD symptoms.
A professional caregiver can help your loved one exercise safely in the comfort of home. Home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
Builds Confidence
As mobility and mental cognition start to decrease, confidence can begin to wane as well. Activities like tai chi, modified yoga, water ballet, and swimming can make seniors feel both capable and accomplished. Regular exercise can promote better balance, increased coordination, and greater flexibility. As these positive changes occur, self-confidence will increase.
Stimulates a Healthy Appetite
Dopamine plays an important role in triggering feelings of hunger. Seniors who experience marked weight loss in a very short amount of time may not have sufficient dopamine to trigger hunger. It’s difficult to eat if you always feel full. The “feel-good” chemicals the body releases during exercise will not only help seniors feel more content, but they can also stimulate a robust appetite. This will make it easier for seniors to get the nutrients they need for optimal functioning.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of at-home care. Huntsville Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Promotes Deep & Restful Sleep
Few things are as important to mental health as deep and restful sleep. For seniors, getting a good night of uninterrupted sleep can become increasingly challenging as new aches, pains, and nighttime needs arise. A good workout will make it much easier for a senior to nod off and fall into the deepest levels of sleep. Upon waking up, they’ll feel refreshed, have more energy, and be much less prone to mood swings.
Exercising helps older adults in a variety of ways, and some seniors require assistance to maintain a healthy lifestyle. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Huntsville seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers. Call us today at (256) 716-9940 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.