The Importance of Buoyancy 

Land exercises such as running and aerobics put a lot of pressure on the joints and force the body to work against gravity, which can be painful for seniors with arthritis. Aquatic exercise, on the other hand, puts minimal stress on the joints. Water provides buoyancy, which means it supports the body’s weight. Instead of working against gravity, seniors exercising in the water work against water resistance. 

Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. San Diego Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Water Resistance

Water is 12 times more resistant than air, which means walking across a waist-deep swimming pool requires 12 times more effort than walking the same distance on land. When seniors exercise in the water, they burn more calories than they would if they made the same moves on dry land. Water resistance also strengthens and builds muscle mass. By strengthening their muscles, seniors with arthritis can increase their overall mobility. 

The Therapeutic Value of Heated Pools

Many seniors with arthritis like to exercise in warm water. Exercising in heated pools, which are usually between 82 and 88 degrees, soothes tired, inflamed joints. After a warm-water aquatic fitness class, seniors may feel stronger and notice a reduction in pain. 

The Health Benefits of Aquatic Fitness

Due to the combination of buoyancy and water resistance, seniors who frequently exercise in the water burn more calories and build more muscle than they otherwise would. Aquatic exercise also boosts cardiovascular fitness, range of motion, and balance. Better range of motion is especially important for seniors with arthritis, as they often experience diminished joint flexibility. By following a regular regimen of aquatic exercise, seniors can restore mobility to their joints and enhance their overall health. 

Older adults with arthritis may need help exercising. Some seniors need occasional assistance at home, and oftentimes the family members who take care of them need time away to run errands, take a nap, go to work, or take a vacation. San Diego senior care experts from Assisting Hands Home Care are available on an as-needed basis, giving your family peace of mind that your loved one will remain safe and comfortable while you relax or focus on other important responsibilities.

Aquatic Fitness Options 

Aquatic fitness classes are available at most gyms, community pools, YMCAs, and senior centers. There are several types of exercise options available, and seniors with arthritis should find classes that suit their fitness levels and health goals. Some classes take place in chest-level water, where students perform standard aerobic exercises like knee lifts and jumping jacks. Other classes are in deeper pools where students wear flotation vests and their feet never touch the bottom of the pool. When searching for aquatic exercise classes, seniors with arthritis should also consider water temperature. Hot- and cold-water classes are both helpful for seniors with arthritis, but many people find hot water more therapeutic.

Engaging in aquatic exercise is just one of the many ways seniors can alleviate arthritis symptoms and optimize their quality of life. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust senior home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Assisting Hands Home Care. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call us today.