Exercise for the Elderly

Exercise helps older adults maintain strength, mobility, and confidence as their bodies change.

Exercise helps older adults maintain strength, mobility, and confidence as their bodies change.

Why Exercise Matters

Regular movement helps maintain muscle, balance, joint mobility, heart health and confidence. It can also make daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs and getting out of a chair easier.

Start Slowly

Someone who has been inactive should begin with short, manageable periods of activity and gradually increase duration or resistance.

Walking

Walking is inexpensive and easy to adjust to the individual. A short walk several times a week can be built into a regular routine.

Strength and Resistance Exercises

Light weights, resistance bands and body-weight movements can help maintain the muscles used for everyday tasks.

Balance and Flexibility

Gentle stretching, Tai Chi and balance exercises can improve body awareness and range of motion.

Choose Activities You Enjoy

Exercise is easier to maintain when it is enjoyable. Gardening, swimming, dancing, cycling and group fitness can all count as movement.

Safety First

Pain, dizziness, chest discomfort or unusual shortness of breath are reasons to stop and seek appropriate medical advice. Exercises should be adapted to existing conditions and mobility limitations.