Winter doesn’t have to mean hibernation mode for seniors!
Sure, the chilly weather might make a trip outside as appealing as a polar plunge. But you can help transform their living room into a cozy-warm fitness oasis.
Let’s explore some science-backed indoor exercise options that can keep the senior in your life both entertained and healthy through the cold months.
Combine Resistance Training and Meditative Movement
Think of this as the dynamic duo of senior fitness.
A systematic review (backed by the National Institute on Aging) gives a big thumbs up to combining resistance training and meditative movements like yoga and Tai Chi.
Help your senior loved one buff up those muscles, improve balance, and sprinkle a little Zen into their days. It’s like hitting the gym and the spa, all without leaving the house! The perfect exercise combo to keep away the winter blues.
Try Exercise-Based Active Video Games
Level up the fun with video games that get your senior loved one moving this winter!
These aren’t your average sit-and-click games. We’re talking about games that will have them dancing, jumping, and maybe even breaking a sweat, all in the privacy of their home. It’s like tricking their bodies into exercising by having a blast – sneaky but effective! Bonus: guaranteed laughter with the grandkids, too.
Exercise-based active video games have been shown to improve various aspects of health in older adults.
Mix Exercise with a Healthy Diet
Turns out, kale and cardio go hand in hand.
Studies show that pairing a healthy diet with exercise is most effective in reversing frailty in older adults.
A balanced diet provides the energy and essential nutrients your senior loved one needs, while aerobic activity and balance exercises keep their body strong and agile. Resistance training plays a crucial role in these interventions, as it not only builds muscle but also helps in maintaining muscle mass when losing weight.
Take It Easy with Chair Exercises
For seniors, especially those with mobility or balance challenges, chair exercises can be a game-changer.
They’re a safe, low-impact way to keep their joints limber and muscles engaged, all from the comfort of their favorite chair. A gym session, but seated! Exercises can range from simple leg lifts and arm raises to more dynamic movements like seated marches or gentle stretches.
Chair exercises are ideal for your senior loved ones on chilly winter days. What could be better than staying cozy and warm watching their favorite daytime television while doing their leg lifts?
Help Your Senior Loved Ones Stay Fit and Warm This Winter
The truth is, there’s a whole world of indoor exercises that are perfect for seniors, from resistance training to virtual bowling alleys.
Help them stay fit, stay warm, and maybe even have a little fun along the way!
Remember, though, it’s always a good idea to chat with a healthcare provider before encouraging your senior loved one to start any new fitness regime.
Next Steps
You can always get compassionate, tailored support from us in one of these three easy ways — all completely free.
Visit our support page to request your complimentary Caregiver Workbook.
Call our Caregiver Hotline for free custom support at 855-461-2552. All questions welcome.
Send us a message describing how we can support you. Choose whether you’d like us to reach out: text, email, or snail mail.
There is no charge for these services. They’re simply an extension of our mission to help every family who calls.
