8/28/2024
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Posted by Dr. Arik Olson, Fidelis Care Medical Director
September is Healthy Aging Month. It’s a time to reflect on ways to improve health and quality of life into our golden years. Physical activity and exercise are very important for health at any age. Staying active is even more important as we get older.
Some of the benefits of exercise are well known. It can help prevent heart disease, strokes, and diabetes. But did you know that staying active can also help improve pain, elevate your mood, help with anxiety, and even prevent memory loss that may come with aging?
If you haven’t been staying active, it can be difficult to begin an exercise routine. Start slowly and ask your healthcare provider what kinds of exercise will work best for you. Even five minutes a day of physical activity has health benefits. It’s good to do a variety of activities. Mix it up to not do the same thing every day, which could get boring.
Activities like walking, dancing, or even raking leaves can help get your heart rate up. This is called aerobic exercise or “cardio.” Activities using weights like books or cans of food can help build muscle strength. Standing on one foot while holding onto a chair can help improve balance. Remember to breathe in and out while you exercise as holding your breath can raise your blood pressure.
Click the links below for more tips on staying active:
Move Your Way: What’s Your Move?
Move Your Way: How Can I Stay Active as I Get Older?
Dr. Arik Olson has served as a Fidelis Care Medical Director for more than five years. He is board certified in both Internal Medicine and in Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Dr. Olson has a special interest in the health of older adults and the many ways we can all stay physically, mentally, and socially healthy as we grow older.