Power of Active Aging
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This document discusses the benefits of active aging for seniors, highlighting improvements in physical health, mental acuity, and social involvement through an active lifestyle. It emphasizes that senior living communities play a crucial role in promoting physical activity and overall well-being among residents. Additionally, the paper encourages engagement in various activities to prevent health issues and improve quality of life for elderly individuals.
Power of Active Aging
- 1. POWER OF ACTIVE AGING While aging comes with its share of challenges, seniors who remain active are apt to benefit in a number of ways. Active aging can help seniors improve their physical wellbeing, but it also helps to improve mental acuity and stability. Seniors who engage in an active, healthy lifestyle may find that they are more socially involved, as well. This white paper serves to illustrate the ways in which seniors may benefit from living an active lifestyle. Additionally, this white paper discusses the ways that senior living communities help to pro- mote this style of aging, so seniors of all needs and health levels may lead happier lives. *Always consult with your doctor or health professional before making any changes to your lifestyle, like starting a new diet or exercise program.
- 2. What Is Active Aging? An active lifestyle does not simply mean getting regular exercise. Being active means being involved with social and community activities. It may also involve being engaged with family activities. To remain active in their senior years, people might participate in a wide range of activities, from being involved in social gatherings to working part time. People who are disabled can still remain active, as well. Activity may be tailored to meet the needs and abilities of the individual. w w w . c o n c o r d i a l m . o r g
- 3. The Importance of Active Aging According to information found on the United States Environmental Protection Agency website (in reference to data made available by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), a mere 20 percent of individuals over the age of 65 engage in activity on a regular basis. This may contrib- ute to the percentage of seniors who live with chronic health conditions. Daily physical activity is essential to assisting in the prevention and control of chronic health issues, and it is necessary for seniors to maintain overall fitness. Both structured and unstructured physical activities can serve seniors well. Programs that pro- mote physical activity among seniors are vital to such populations. Senior communities that pro- vide residents with viable physical activity options may help to promote the health and well-being of the seniors they serve. w w w . c o n c o r d i a l m . o r g
- 4. Active Aging for Physical Health Seniors who do not get enough exercise are likely putting their physical health at risk. A lifestyle that does not include activity can often lead to preventable doctor and hospital visits. While some seniors may feel intimidated by the thought of engaging in daily physical activity, the risks involved with not exercising could be significant. People who do not exercise may experience more difficulty walking and maintaining their balance. They may also have high blood pressure as a result of inactivity. All of these factors can lead to an increased need for medical attention, as well as a higher chance of re- quiring medication. The National Institutes of Health state that scientists have found exercise to be a factor in the preven- tion of a number of diseases. Physical activity can also be integrated with the treatment of a variety of health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. Seniors who suffer from arthritis may also benefit from getting regular exercise. Many health experts recommend that seniors get as much exer- cise as they can. Active Aging for Mental Wellbeing Exercise can also help to prevent rapid cognitive decline, and those who are at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease might stay active to help prevent the disease from manifesting. Research indi- cates that seniors who participate in yoga or aerobic exercise may improve their cognitive function (including initiating commands and general recognition). They could also benefit from healthier sleeping patterns, improved relationships with family members, and a boost in self-confidence. This may be true after only a few months of regular aerobic activity or yoga. Seniors who participate in physical activity may experience a noticeable decrease in their stress levels as well. Getting enough physical activity can help seniors perform daily tasks, such as meal preparation, bathing and dress- ing, and making plans for the future. w w w . c o n c o r d i a l m . o r g
- 5. Active Aging for Social Wellness According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, physical activity can aid in prevent- ing early retirement, and it may also encourage seniors to remain socially active. Since social activity is vital for overall mental and emotional wellness, seniors who stay active are likely to reach out and interact with others. This interaction can contribute to an increased sense of purpose and self-worth. w w w . c o n c o r d i a l m . o r g
- 6. How Senior Communities Can Promote Active Aging Retirement communities can play an important role in the overall activity level of their community members. An assisted living facility might have a fitness center, so its resi- dents are able to stay active as much as possible. A senior living community may engage seniors in a wide range of activities, such as computer labs, community education class- es, and organized exercise programs. Another way to keep seniors engaged and interest- ed in their community (and thus active) is to organize a volunteer program within a retire- ment community; participants might volunteer their time to serve others within or outside of the senior living community itself. When seniors live an active lifestyle, they’re working to stay healthier and possibly even extend life expectancy. Many seniors require varying degrees of assistance in exploring their options for a healthy, active life. Senior living communities can help residents of all health levels to stay active and happy as they age. With one of the broadest networks of care in the region, you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for among the numerous senior health care services and living communi- ties from Concordia Lutheran Ministries. Each one of our beautiful locations goes above and beyond standard senior living communities to help you feel more at home, providing you with a beautiful, clean, comfortable and safe community filled with residents and caregivers who aim to make the most out of every day. Whether you’re looking for a short stay to rehabilitate from a surgery and illness or a place to call home for years to come, discover the community that awaits you at every senior living location from Concordia Lutheran Ministries. Visit us online at www.ConcordiaLM.org, or call our administrative headquarters at 1-888-352-1571. w w w . c o n c o r d i a l m . o r g
- 7. www.concordialm.org Every senior deserves to make the most of his or her “golden” years. All se- niors should be treated with dignity and respect, and elderly people should have access to superior professional care. By taking a few basic steps and addressing a few common issues, a senior and his or her relatives may ensure that the best possible care is available at all times. w w w . c o n c o r d i a l m . o r g