We often hear that age is just a number, but what that number signifies varies widely. For seniors, a life filled with purpose and meaning can make all the difference. At Senior Lifestyle, we believe age does not have to limit learning, growth, or vitality – which is why we’re celebrating Wellderly Week.
Wellderly Week redefines “acting your age” by encouraging seniors to pursue a passion, take up a new hobby, and do what makes them happy. For many seniors, their retirement years present an opportunity to develop interests that were shelved during their working years. Often this shift in thinking helps to maintain physical and mental health, providing a social outlet as well as a rise in physical activity.
Well and elderly need not be mutually exclusive! Today’s senior living communities have moved beyond Bingo, providing events geared toward the social and physical activity levels of their residents, including social outings as well as lifelong learning opportunities. Many college campuses also offer courses geared to the needs of the aging population, and community service organizations boast a vibrant senior membership focused on giving back and sharing their life experiences with younger members.
Experts agree, maintaining senior physical health through exercise tailored to your level of ability can also help to maintain mental and emotional health. What exercises fit best into a senior’s health program?
Walking. No special equipment required! The biggest investment may be a pair of comfortable shoes. Walking helps maintain mobility, and decreases muscle loss.
Swimming. Swimming promotes heart health, provides low impact aerobic benefits and helps maintain flexibility.
Seated Flexibility. For seniors with decreased mobility, seated exercises can be beneficial. These exercises focus on maintaining joint health, function and range of motion.
Seniors today are an amazing group of people. Through active senior lifestyles, better nutrition, and the pursuit of purpose-filled lives, they are living proof that “80 is the new 70”. Celebrate Wellderly Week and senior health with the words of poet Robert Browning: “Grow old with me! the best is yet to be!” For more information on how your local community celebrates our “Wellderly” residents, visit our site to find the location nearest to you.