The Power of Walking: Benefits for Senior Health
As we age, prioritizing our physical well-being becomes paramount, and one tried-and-true activity that offers an array of benefits is walking. Not only is walking an enjoyable and low-impact activity, but as little as 10 minutes of walking per day can help seniors in their quest to maintain optimal health. Here are some of the many benefits of walking for senior health, and why there’s no time like the present to start a regular walking regimen. Of course, before starting any new fitness routine, be sure to speak to a health professional.
Seniors Walking for a Healthy Weight
By taking regular walks, seniors can burn extra calories to help prevent weight gain and lower the risk of obesity-related health problems. Walking is also very easy to incorporate into an existing daily routine since it requires no special equipment.
You can add more steps to your day by simply adding a short walk after meals, walking instead of driving when possible or even just by making a concerted effort to move off the couch during commercial breaks of TV shows. It all counts!
How Walking Reduces the Risk of Falls and Injuries
As we age, we face a higher risk of falls, which can lead to serious injuries. Walking is an effective way to reduce the risk of falls and related injuries by improving balance, coordination and strength.
Reducing the risk of falls isn’t the only major benefit that comes with better balance and coordination. By staying mobile, seniors can maintain their independence longer.
Cardiovascular Benefits of Walking
Walking is a great heart-healthy activity for seniors. Regular walks can help older adults maintain a healthy blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and improve circulation. Physical activity can also help lower stress and reduce chronic inflammation, further improving heart health.
No amount of extra exercise is too little. A recent study found that people ages 70 and older who took an additional 500 steps per day had a 14% lower risk of heart disease, stroke or heart failure. Further, seniors who took approximately 4,500 steps per day had a 77% lower risk of a cardiac event compared to older adults who took less than 2,000 steps per day.
Walking and Mental Health Benefits
The benefits of walking are more than just physical. Walking is great for mental health in a variety of ways, as well. Regular walks can help reduce anxiety, improve mood and even enhance cognitive function.
Walking can also be a great social activity for older adults, further enhancing mental well-being. By regularly engaging in social activities, seniors stay more active and increase the quality of their retirement years.
Stay Active at Abbey Delray South
At Abbey Delray South, we believe that prioritizing your health is essential. That’s why we offer premier wellness options and health services to members of our community.
We also understand that wellness goes beyond simply eating healthy and staying active. That’s why community life at Abbey Delray South is designed to provide the ideal retirement experience. Here, you can connect with like-minded peers, participate in new and engaging activities or just enjoy a relaxing environment free from the daily chores and responsibilities of life.
We’d love to answer any questions you may have about life in our community. If you’d like to know more, contact us today and a member of our team can discuss retirement life with you.