LTC - WIldcard

Senior Exercising

Exercise enables us to function better and work at our potential; however, these days, senior citizens are reporting to exercise less and less each year. Reasons vary for not exercising, such as feeling inferior at the gym, not having proper transportation, and losing interest. As a result of the reduced activity, many community leaders are trying to start up exercise programs designed specifically for seniors. The easy and most convenient type of exercise is walking, not to mention, it is the safest since it is usually not as physically demanding as running or weight training. Some facilities, such as the YMCA, have started senior programs that meet early for morning coffee and exercise. Not only are such programs a good social activity, but they also give elders the motivation to get up in the morning to exercise since their friends will be there.

Exercises can have many benefits on elders, such as reducing their chances of chronic illness and conditions. The risk of osteoporosis in women can be significantly reduced with weight strengthening in combination with a good diet. Also, good exercise habits have been correlated to reduced heart disease, stroke, colorectal cancer, breast cancer and type II diabetes. Most importantly, exercise increases the average life span and fights the effects of aging, such as joint disorders, bone loss, and muscle break down.

Personally, I think future generations will not experience the same needs as today’s elders, since we are growing up in an educated and “health crazy” society. Studies report individuals with higher education have better exercise routines. I think it is important to get involved in an exercise program early in life, then it could be easier later to stay with the same routine, or modify it according to one’s needs.