Active Aging
We know that staying physically active is crucial as we age. Exercise and movement are linked to longer life expectancy, reduced risk for chronic diseases, and lower rates of injuries from accidents. Research shows that physical activity can help your mental health, too.
Because staying active is crucial for overall wellness, it’s essential to find innovative ways to get moving.
Why Seniors Should Stay Active
Like other adults, seniors need to stay active. As we age, however, the importance of physical activity can increase. Cognitive decline, loss of balance, mental health concerns, or social isolation are all challenges when it comes to staying fit as we age. By prioritizing physical movement, we can combat some of those obstacles.
What Kinds of Activity Matter?
Activities that move your body are key; the intensity of the movement matters much less. Guidelines for older adults include aerobic activity, strength training, and balance activities each week. In addition, research shows that social connections for seniors directly affect physical and mental health. Combining physical movement with social activities can enhance the impact of exercise.
Simple Ways to Find Active and Memorable Moments
When we’re set in a solid routine, it can feel impossible to add movement, interest, or fun to our day. With a little creativity, though, it’s easy to get more active and make memories.
Add a Theme
Even the most mundane tasks can feel elevated when you add a theme or unusual element. If you’re cooking dinner for yourself at home, choose a decade and make a meal from that time period. Dining with friends at the senior center? Let everyone know to wear their favorite color or dress in their finest clothes.
There’s no reason to save whimsy for special occasions! A theme will also naturally add some activity to your day. Collecting clothes, going to the store, or looking through themed accessories are all chances to get up and get moving. Want to increase the physical activity? Choose a song or two that match your day’s theme and have a dance party.
Take One Task Outside
One of the simplest ways to add more physical activity and interest to your day is by heading outside. Choose a time of day when the weather is best, and move your typical routine outdoors for at least 20 minutes. You’d be surprised how many tasks can happen in nature. Pack water, a snack, sunscreen, and proper attire so that you can stay outside longer than anticipated; once you feel the sunshine and the rejuvenating power of fresh air, you might want to linger.
Be a Historian
Approach your day from a new perspective by thinking like a historian. What would future generations find interesting about your routine? How would you describe what it’s like to go about your daily tasks? Consider how fascinated we are with documentaries, historical journals, and found artifacts.
Even though your daily life might seem routine, your descendants will find joy and fascination in even the smallest details. Take on this role by starting a narrated audio journal for future generations. Walk around the neighborhood or stroll in the park while you talk into a portable recorder to get in some extra activity.
Practice “Body Doubling”
The idea of “body doubling” helps people of every age enjoy mundane (or even dreaded) tasks more. Invite a friend or family member to share your space while you each accomplish a task. The beauty is that you don’t have to be actively interacting, and each person can complete their own work. By simply being near each other, you’ll feel happier, less stressed, and more likely to stay on task. If you struggle with elements of physical activity, schedule your workout for a time when you have a double.
Start a “Something New” Notebook
It can be easy to overlook changes around us when our daily routine is fixed. To add some activity to your day and open your eyes to new things, start a “something new” notebook. Each day (or whenever you need a boost), take a walk around your home or community and find something new. Crouch down low to look under park benches, walk up the hillside to check behind a tree, stand near your front window while doing squats — any movement that changes your perspective and encourages you to be aware of your surroundings.
The new elements might be small and could be found using any of your senses. After several months, you’ll be surprised to review the notebook and see how many new things you’ve observed simply by moving around in different ways.
