How to Keep Older People Working Out
 

Jen Monroe

Regular physical activity is crucial for health, especially in older individuals, because it not only helps prevent all sorts of life-threatening diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes, it also aids in the strengthening of bones and the promotion of better mobility.

Unfortunately, based on the same study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around one of two women and one of three men stop being physically active as soon as they hit age 75—and this is despite the ready availability of fun non-traditional workouts.  

The challenges

According to a study published on the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) website, as people age, their strength and ability to recover from intense workouts decrease. In addition, various health conditions, such as arthritis and hypertension, start to appear, especially for people who did not lead particularly healthy lifestyles when they were younger. Unfortunately, for most individuals, this is enough reason to just give up on the idea of working out altogether.

The solution

The first step is to structure an effective workout and eating plan that takes into consideration the patient’s current fitness level along with any medical conditions and special dietary requirements they may have. Second, it is also important to check how the patient responds to their new regimen after a couple of weeks so adjustments can be made if necessary.

For instance, if the workouts leave them constantly feeling weak, then more rest days in between training sessions may be in order. In addition, an increase in their overall protein intake may also be recommended not only because it can help them recover faster, but also because older people simply need more amino acids in their diet.

Of course, if the patient has bad knees or is suffering from mobility-restricting conditions like arthritis, then more low impact cardio exercises are the way to go. For instance, instead of recommending jogging or jumping jacks, encourage them to go biking or swimming. This will allow them to keep their heart healthy without aggravating their condition.

Help them overcome the limitations of age

At the end of the day, it’s all about finding a way around whatever limitations the patient has. The good news is that when you do, the client will not only be rewarded with better health and improved strength and mobility, they may even end up fixing the medical conditions that have been holding them back in the first place.

 

Jen Monroe is a full-time freelance writer and editor. A career in charity PR saw her working in many sectors but now freelancing allows her to focus on the topics that she loves most: wellness, health and nutrition. When not working she loves to go running, traveling with her family and reading.

 

 

Return to March 2018 e-Journal