Aging family members are at an increased risk of experiencing many health problems compared to younger people. One of the best ways that they can keep themselves healthy is by being physically active regularly, but that’s easier said than done for some individuals who live alone or whose quality of life may be impacted by other factors. Keeping older adults active isn’t easy work, but it can be done with the right approach. Read on to learn more about how to encourage the elderly to get up and stay physically active.
Find an Exercise Group
Search online or in-person for an exercise group that would appeal to the elderly. Look for local organizations like churches, recreation centers, and hospitals. Check with your loved ones’ primary care physician to see if there are any programs available through their office or if they qualify for special exercises offered through Medicare or other insurance plans. Also, look for public health nurses in your area. They will help you find a safe and supervised program that meets your loved one’s needs and interests. Remember, not all exercise groups are designed for older adults; some will be too intense or competitive.
Provide Rewards
A great way to get aging family members out of bed and move about is to give them a treat for accomplishing each goal. When they reach the activity level you’ve set for them, give them a shopping trip or movie night out on you.
Make Exercise Fun
Do not tell your loved ones that they need to exercise; instead, offer them in fun and engaging ways. Walk with your grandma around her neighborhood, join in on a pick-up game of tennis at your local park or play some backyard games like badminton or ping pong together.
Start Small
Even if your loved one isn’t into physical activity, there are a few easy ways to encourage them to do more. If they’re an early riser, try taking a walk in your neighborhood with them. Or, maybe you can convince them to go on a hike with you when they’d rather watch television or sleep. Most people love being outdoors and trying new things, even if it seems a little scary at first. Give it time and be encouraging! Exercise will make your loved ones feel better and give them something to look forward to doing in their free time.
Oher Activities to Engage in
Most people agree that they need to keep fit, but many lack a good reason. Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore, though. There are lots of ways to make exercise enjoyable and even fun! Simple things like choosing an activity you love—gardening, dancing, or swimming—can give you a personal reason for staying active. If gardening isn’t your thing, then find a group that meets regularly in a park or community center and enjoy spending time with friends while getting exercise at the same time. You could also try simple hobbies like knitting or sewing that require regular periods of physical activity as part of their process.
