Tips for Seniors to Stay Active

You’ve probably tried before. You start out walking a few times a week or doing some chair yoga for a few days. But soon enough, old habits creep back in, and you have to start from scratch. So, how can you make staying active more likely? Here are some tips.

It takes at least a month to ingrain a new habit. So, set your schedule for your new activity for the next month and don’t even think about it.

• Find something you enjoy. Arrange to exercise with a friend. Walk indoors. Join a walking club for seniors. Get a dog! Or go to the SPCA or other dog rescue and volunteer to walk a dog if you can’t get one of your own.
• Remember to warm up. A few stretches will make you feel better and reduce the risk of injury. Ask your physiotherapist for some exercises tailored to your needs.
• Get outside in the wintertime, especially on a sunny day. Dress for the weather and walk, or just sit on the deck and do your chair yoga. Fresh air makes a big difference!
• Create an exercise routine at home. Go up and down the stairs, take laps around the kitchen, and dance to your favourite music.
• If your bad knee acts up one day, move everything else! Discover some activities that work around your troublesome spots for those days.
• Find ways to reward yourself for staying active without breaking the bank. Visit by video chat with a friend. Read a good book. Whatever helps you work toward the goal of staying active.

An exercise habit is good for your body, but your mind might get bored if you do the same thing every day. Check out some options like dance classes or other options through parks and rec. Often the fees are very reasonable or even free for seniors.

And we recommend a walk-in bathtub to safely soak away those aches and pains. Modify your existing tub with a tub cutout to make baths and showers safer.