Walking is one activity that can continue to be accessible for seniors thanks to the fact they can take it easy, use mobility aids, and do it at any time. And since being active becomes more and more important with age to preserve mental, emotional, and physical health, seniors who gain support from senior home to get up and walk each day will benefit in many ways. The truth is that walking offers many benefits that help support vitality, longevity, and everything in between.

What Advantages Does Walking Offer Seniors?

There’s a reason why walking is one of the most suggested activities for seniors by medical professionals. Plus, it can be easy for senior home care to encourage seniors who might live a more sedentary lifestyle to add walking to their routine every day due to its simplicity. Some of the advantages seniors gain from walking include the following:

• Enhances Cardiovascular Health: Seniors who walk frequently can lower their chance of developing cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes, as well as preserve a healthy heart.
• Improves Mental Well-Being: Walking has mental health benefits in addition to physical ones. It has been demonstrated to elevate mood, lower the risk of anxiety and depression, and enhance general cognitive performance. Additionally, walking’s regular motion may be peaceful and meditative, which makes it a natural stress reliever.
• Preserves Joint Health and Mobility: Walking helps lubricate the joints, strengthens muscles, and increases flexibility, all of which enhance mobility. Maintaining mobility is essential for seniors to retain their independence and quality of life.
• Helps with Weight Management: As people age, their metabolisms tend to slow down, making weight management a concern. Walking quickly can aid in calorie burning and weight maintenance. Plus, when pared with healthy meal planning assistance senior home care may offer, maintaining a healthy weight will be easier than ever.

How Far Should Seniors Walk?

Seniors with different health issues and levels of fitness may benefit from different walking durations and intensities. But generally speaking, they should try to get in at least 30 minutes a day of moderate-intense walking most days of the week. If necessary, this can be divided into smaller sessions spread out throughout the day. As their fitness increases, they can increase the duration and intensity. With senior home care by their side, they gain encouragement to keep making progress.

What Shoes Should Seniors Wear When Walking?

Walking comfortably, safely and with support requires wearing the right shoes, especially for seniors. Here are some pointers for choosing the appropriate footwear:

• Comfort is Essential: Seniors should select footwear that feels cozy when they put it on. The fit should be snug but not too tight, with a cushioned sole and plenty of toe room.
• Supportive Structure: To lower the risk of falls and injuries, seniors should choose shoes with good ankle stability and arch support.
• Lightweight and Flexible: Seniors should select shoes that are flexible and light enough to allow for normal foot motion.
• Breathable Materials: To keep feet cool and dry and lower the risk of blisters and fungal infections, seniors should choose shoes made of breathable materials.

Walking is a timeless and valuable tool for seniors on their journey towards healthy aging. With the help of senior home care, they can incorporate walking into their lives each day.

Sources:
https://www.excellenceinfitness.com/blog/7-benefits-of-walking-every-day-for-older-adults
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Walking-the-benefits-for-older-people
https://seniorservicesofamerica.com/blog/health-benefits-of-walking-for-seniors/

If You Or An Aging Loved One is Considering Senior Home Care in Commerce City, CO, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 720-780-7755.