Jun 21, 2024
Physical activity has important health benefits for older adults — but people may find it hard to stay active as they age. Joining us is a physical therapist from United Hospital Center’s United Rehab to help answer your questions concerning physical activity for older adults.
I am Dr. Kristen Sepp, physical therapist at United Rehab, and I am here to discuss the importance of physical activity for older adults.
1). Can physical activity make daily life better for older adults?
When you’re active and strong, it’s easier to do everyday tasks, such as chores, shopping, and keeping up with grandkids. It can help you stay independent as you get older. You may also see big health benefits, like having less pain, a better mood, and lower risk of many diseases.
2). What types of activity do older adults need?
Older adults need at least 150 minutes a week of physical activity. This includes moderate-intensity aerobic activity, that is any activity that gets your heart beating faster. For two days a week, an older adult should engage in muscle-strengthening. That is any activity that makes your muscles work harder than usual. Also, aim to mix in activities to improve your balance such as pickleball, dance, and Tai Chi. It will help to keep your body strong and lower your risk of falls.
3). What can physical activity do regarding the health of older adults?
Physical activity can help manage many health problems for older adults such as reducing the risk of falling, symptoms of arthritis, anxiety, and depression. It can also keep diabetes and high blood pressure under control. Older adults will want to start slow and only do what they can. Even a five-minute walk has real health benefits. Build up to more activity over time.
This content was originally posted on the WDTV News website here.
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