| We often think of exercise as a young person's | | | | can also help to ease the aches and pains |
| pastime, but senior citizens can also benefit from | | | | frequently associated with joints such as the |
| regular physical activity. In fact, it is increasingly | | | | elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles. Other exercises |
| important to exercise routinely as you age. The | | | | such as tai chi can also improve balance, which |
| elder can benefit from exercise in many ways. | | | | translates into fewer falls and reduced risk of |
| Senior citizens are at greater risk of fractured | | | | bone fractures. |
| bones due to falls, but weight training can help to | | | | There is also some evidence to suggest that |
| improve bone density and muscle mass. Studies | | | | exercise can have mental effects as well, |
| have shown that senior citizens who regularly lift | | | | improving cognitive function and reducing the |
| weights can significantly improve their walking | | | | symptoms of depression. The key is to start |
| endurance, walking speed, and leg strength. | | | | small with light exercise such as five or ten |
| Aerobic activity is also important. Seniors who | | | | minutes of walking. Ideally, it is best for senior |
| walk just 30 minutes each day can lower their | | | | citizens to exercise with the aid of a professional |
| risk of obesity and increase their life expectancy. | | | | in order to ensure proper care. Remember that it |
| In addition, seniors should aim to increase their | | | | is never too late to start taking your health into |
| flexibility. Exercises that focus on flexibility such as | | | | your own hands. |
| yoga can be helpful for improving mobility. This | | | | |