For the older adult, staying active can be a real challenge. Family caregivers become genuinely concerned about the health and safety of their elder parents. When health and activity are at declining levels, frailty can become a real issue. Seniors fear the thought they may become frail, for they know it will threaten their independence. Senior care experts attest that frailty takes a toll on a senior’s social life.

In order to avert frailty, those muscles must be worked and those limbs and joints must be moved. Frailty is not an inherent part of aging, but nevertheless it is a result of inactivity. For the elder adult who wants to retain as much independence as possible, it’s never too late to start working out! Of course, they can start out small. It doesn’t have to be an all or nothing effort.

Talk to your senior loved one about physical fitness and strengthening their muscles. They need to be committed to make this work. Let them go through the following steps to start a muscle strengthening plan. You can do it with them or hire an elder care provider to encourage them to exercise daily. Their elderly care provider can take them to their weekly swimming or yoga session. Other days of the week they can workout at home in their living room or senior’s day at the local gym.

How to get started with physical activity – for seniors

1. Make the decision that physical activity is important to you
2. Think of the benefits being fit will bring you – more movement, more independence, better health, more energy, less fall risk, etc.
3. Go see your doctor and make sure everything is okay to start an exercise plan. Get the doctor’s suggestions as well as any restrictions if they apply.
4. Make a plan. Have some buddies who will support you and help you carry out the plan. You could even hire someone who specializes in senior fitness to help.
5. Carry out your plan.
6. Chart your progress. At the beginning write down what you can and can’t do. Write down your progress at the end of each week. It will be of great encouragement to you.

The fear of becoming frail tends to make seniors worried they can’t stay in their own homes. The best way to ensure they can continue living in the comfort of their own home with a caregiver to assist them with some daily tasks is to make sure they are exercising every day and staying as strong as possible. It adds not only to physical health but to mental and emotional health as well.

If you or a loved one could benefit from the help of elderly care in St. Augustine, FL, contact the caregivers at Signature Home Health Care. We help seniors and their families with many levels of home care service. Call 904-513-2464 for more information