Exercise for Seniors

Exercise plays a very important role in the general health and the quality of life of everyone, but especially in seniors. Seniors who walk tend to look younger, sleep more soundly and have fewer visits to the doctor. According to Christine Dobraowolski, podiatrist and author of Those Arching Feet: Your Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment of Common Foot Problems, walking for 30 to 60 minutes four to six days a week will help improve osteoarthritis and decrease the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and obesity. Walking is the top recreational sport for seniors.
Dobraowolski suggests,”Although many seniors may be scared to start an exercise program because they are worried about injury, the health benefits of exercise outweigh the risk of injury”. Walking is considered one of the best forms of exercise because it’s safe, cheap and easy. Unfortunately, foot problems can prevent seniors from starting or continuing with a walking program.
In order to avoid foot problems, she states that choosing the right shoe can make a big difference and make sure to buy them in the afternoon, to get the best fit. Start your walk slowly and at an easy pace and if you are a beginner and walk on a flat, soft surface like a dirt path. Other important factors to remember are to warm up before you walk with light stretching, avoid walking in bad weather and walk in well lit places. Last, but not least, Dobraowolski tells us that we should examine our feet after the walk and never walk through the pain. All these suggestions will help to prevent slips, falls and injury.
Happy Walking from Carefree Homecare!
www.carefreehomecare.com