As we age, it is common for our bodies to experience physical and cognitive decline, making it increasingly difficult to maintain an active lifestyle. However, staying active and engaging in regular exercise can have a range of benefits for older adults. At The Good Shepherd nursing home, we pride ourselves on offering seniors an active lifestyle within our comfortable and secure community. Here we’ll explore the various benefits of staying active whilst ageing.
Physical Health
Staying active and engaging in regular exercise can have significant benefits for a senior’s physical health as they age. Exercise can help maintain muscle mass and strength, improve flexibility, balance and coordination. Regular physical activity can also help maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular function. By staying active and incorporating regular exercise into our daily routine, seniors can improve their physical health, maintain their independence, and reduce their risk of age-related health problems.
Cognitive Function
In addition to physical health benefits, staying active and engaging in regular exercise can have significant cognitive benefits for seniors. Exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. It can also help enhance memory, attention and improve overall brain function. Exercise also releases endorphins, which can boost mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in seniors.
Social Interaction
Staying active and engaging in regular exercise can also have significant social benefits for seniors as they age. Exercise can provide opportunities for social interaction, which is essential for maintaining social connections and reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Group exercise classes, outdoor excursions, music and craft can provide opportunities for seniors to socialise and connect with others who share similar interests. Additionally, staying active and participating in community-based activities can help seniors feel more connected to their community and enhance their sense of belonging.
The Good Shepherd Nursing Home
Activity and fitness comes in many forms at The Good Shepherd aged care home. Our monthly activity calendars includes chair yoga, moving with music, walking activities, ball games and many more to suit a range of abilities and interests. Our caring team seeks out every opportunity to support residents in their physical and mental wellbeing. In addition, through a partnership with the University of Sydney, James Cook University and The Good Shepherd Home has introduced The Friend program which combines exercise, nutrition and planned reduction in medication to maintain mobility, independence and quality of care.
Choose an aged care provider Townsville residents have trusted for over 50 years. Contact us online or call 07 4772 9900 to apply for care with us, or discuss more about our aged care home services and programs.
