If your senior mom or dad is living at home and they have a hard time getting out of the house they may not be getting enough exercise. Even if your senior parent has health conditions that make strenuous exercise impossible for them they may still be able to do some light exercise.
Stretching, moving arms and legs, and walking around the house are all good activities for seniors to help them avoid the health problems of being sedentary. Light exercise at home can also help seniors retain their mobility, manual dexterity, and ability to grip things.
In-home care is highly recommended for seniors living alone. One of the benefits of in-home care is that a care provider can encourage your mom or dad to move more and get as much exercise as they physically can.
Some other things that make exercising at home more manageable for your mom or dad are:
Customized Exercise Programs
If your mom or dad has in-home care, their caregiver can create a custom exercise program. An in-home care provider will know how to create a series of exercises that will help your senior mom or dad and that won’t be difficult for them to do on their own.
Working with an in-home care professional or a certified trainer who specializes in senior fitness can ensure that exercises are safe and effective. Programs can be adjusted for various conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular issues, or mobility limitations.
Use of Assistive Devices
Incorporating assistive devices such as supportive chairs, handrails, or resistance bands can enhance safety and provide additional support during exercise. For example, your mom or dad can use a sturdy chair to help with seated exercises and balance training, while resistance bands can provide gentle strength training without heavy weights.
Accessible Exercise Equipment
There is senior-friendly exercise equipment designed to be easy to use and adjust to make home workouts more convenient. Options like under-desk pedal exercisers, balance balls, or elliptical machines designed for low-impact exercise can be beneficial for seniors who need to move more at home. Ask your mom or dad’s in-home care team for recommendations.
Clear Instructions and Demonstrations
Providing clear, simple instructions and demonstrations can help seniors perform exercises correctly and safely. Written instructions, video tutorials, or virtual classes designed for seniors can be useful. Clear guidance ensures that exercises are done with proper form and technique, reducing the risk of injury.
There are many online, senior-friendly exercise videos that seniors can access for free. Programs like chair stretches, simple limb lifts, and other exercises help seniors get the benefits of gentle movements in a way that is easy for them to understand.
Scheduled Routine and Progress Tracking
Establishing a regular exercise schedule and tracking progress can help maintain motivation and consistency. Using a calendar or planner to set exercise times and monitoring improvements such as increased strength or flexibility can encourage adherence to the routine and celebrate small successes.
An in-home care provider can help your mom or dad start exercising on a schedule throughout the week.
If you or an aging loved one needs In-Home Care in Elk Grove, CA, contact A Better Living Home Care today (916) 514-7006
- Five Tips to Help Your Loved One with Her Medication - November 20, 2024
- Four Key Steps to Better Self-Care for Your Aging Loved One - November 13, 2024
- Know the Symptoms of Pneumonia - November 7, 2024
