It is well documented that exercise is beneficial to a person’s health. This is also true when we reach our later years in life. As a matter of fact, the exercise benefits for the elderly are astounding. Most senior citizens will see benefits from some form of exercise, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Water Exercise and Arthritis
One exercise in particular that can be beneficial is water aerobics or water walking. The beauty of working out in the water is that the water absorbs the pressure that would otherwise be disseminated to the joints. The exercise increases strength in the thighs, calves and arms and is highly recommended for people who suffer from arthritis.
Strengthen Your Heart!
For people with muscle problems, bone and join issues, performing water exercises regularly can lead to decreased pain as the muscles strengthen and are better able to support the body. In addition to strengthening joint and bone support, water aerobics also strengthens the most important muscle in our body – our heart!
A Natural Mood Lifter
Water exercise and exercise in general also has amazing psychological benefits as well. Exercise releases endorphins, which are the body’s “feel good” chemicals. These types of exercise classes are also a great way to get your loved one into a social situation.
It is never too late to introduce exercise into an elderly person’s regimen and when done sooner than later, all of these benefits can help your loved one maintain their independence longer. By being physically fit they will feel better physically and mentally. It’s really a win-win.
For more information on how water exercise can help those with arthritis please visit the Arthritis Foundation at www.arthritis.org. You can find a wealth of information on the different types of water exercise, as well as AF sponsored classes in your area.
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