Did you know that almost 70% of Americans turning 65 will end up needing long-term care at some point in their lives? Whether that care is at a memory care nursing home or an assisted living facility, it’s important to make sure that while they’re living there, your aging loved one stays active.
When we say active, we mean both physically and socially. And more often than not, the two can go hand in hand. So without any further delay, here are a few important reasons for aging seniors to stay active.
Improving Moods
It’s been proven time and time again that exercise is an excellent mood booster. The so-called “runner’s high” involves a rush of endorphins that can actually lift a person’s mood. Fortunately, you don’t have to run a marathon to achieve it.
Maintaining Strength and Flexibility
If you ask anyone in the world why they exercise on a regular basis, the answer will likely be something along the lines of wanting to improve strength or maintain a limber body. While aging seniors in memory care nursing homes may not be doing gymnastics, simple activities can still help them improve their bodies.
Increasing Social Skills
Whether you think so or not, exercise in assisted living facilities can be a very social event. Elderly residents aren’t necessarily taking on running all by themselves. Instead, fun group exercises encourage socialization and teamwork within a community. Both of these things can be extremely beneficial to your loved one.
Enhancing Cognitive Function
When you take care of the body, you also take care of the mind. Exercise improves blood flow to every part of the body, including the brain. In some cases, it may even help elderly residents improve their memory or other cognitive skills that they need.
Staying active while you’re young is one thing, but exercise absolutely shouldn’t be ruled out for senior citizens. In fact, it should be one of the most important parts of their regular routine. So the next time you’re visiting your loved one in an assisted living facility, make sure you ask how active they’ve been.
