Exercise is one of the most effective ways for seniors to maintain their health. Families can encourage their elderly loved ones to overcome barriers to exercise and become more active. Here are a few ways to motivate seniors to start a regular plan of physical activity.
Keep a Positive Perspective
Research the health benefits of exercise, and bring up the topic with your senior loved one in a positive way. Explain that regular physical activity lifts mood, enhances heart health, and leads to better sleep. Avoid focusing on the negative aspects of a sedentary lifestyle, such as weight gain and insomnia, because your loved one may feel as if he or she is being criticized.
Seniors who need help exercising should consider professional in-home care. Senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Get Advice from a Doctor
Some seniors prefer taking advice from their doctors instead of relatives or friends. Accompany your loved one to a medical appointment and ask the doctor to recommend or prescribe safe exercises to help your loved one maintain his or her health.
Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the best ways to ensure your loved one receives consistent encouragement to exercise. Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated elderly home care, Richmond, VA, families can turn to Home Care Assistance. Our respite and live-in caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise.
Check Out Classes at Gyms or Senior Centers
If your loved one is mobile, consider taking him or her to a group setting to exercise with other seniors. Exercising in a social setting can be very motivating. Some gyms even have special programs and classes for seniors. Fees are often discounted, and sometimes the classes are even free.
Exercise Together
Encourage your loved one to exercise regularly by learning the moves and working out with him or her. Avoid coaching or giving too many directions while you work out. Make it a fun activity both of you can do.
Motivating seniors to exercise more often can be a challenging task. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Richmond, VA, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at (804) 207-4746 today.