If you’re over the age of 50, have you ever thought about what it would be like to lose mobility? Most of us have been so focused on staying in shape and active that we haven’t spent much time thinking about how our bodies will age in the future. Some of us may even think that there’s nothing we can do to change our physical state once we reach a certain age. But with these tips, you can learn how to stay physically active and maintain your mobility well into your golden years.
Exercise Helps to Maintain Independence
One of our greatest fears as we age is the loss of independence. Since becoming less mobile typically makes it harder to complete day-to-day tasks, many older adults become homebound and isolated, which can significantly contribute to depression. Daily physical activity—such as walking or dancing—can combat these effects by helping people stay independent for longer. Research has also shown that exercise increases cognitive function in older adults by creating new neurons in our brains, fighting off oxidative stress (cells constantly need protection from pollutants), and boosting memory. Exercise doesn’t just increase mobility; it helps us maintain muscle mass, which is crucial for preventing falls and sustaining balance over time.
Exercise Helps to Regulate Weight
Weight gain is an inevitable part of aging. As you age, your metabolism slows down naturally, and muscle mass diminishes. Eating right and exercising can help slow these effects. Additionally, remaining active helps increase bone density and reduce stress, which are common issues for older adults.
Exercise Help to Prevent Illnesses and Diseases
Osteoporosis, cancer, heart disease, and other illnesses tend to be less prevalent in adults who exercise regularly. As you age, your risk of becoming sick or injured increases. But by exercising, you can reduce your risks for these illnesses.
Exercise Helps to Improve Balance
Many of us fear falling when we get older, but according to Dr. David Katz of Yale University, staying physically active can help maintain your balance and therefore help you stay more active without risking an accident.
Exercise Helps to Slow Age-Related Muscle Loss
A study found that exercise can reduce muscle loss in older people by up to 50 percent, which means it may be able to slow down aging altogether.
Exercise Helps with Flexibility
Being flexible makes it easier to perform everyday tasks like washing yourself, putting on clothes, or moving around freely without getting hurt or hurting others nearby. Regular exercise also makes it easier for older adults to keep up with their grandkids when playing sports like soccer or football.
Exercise Enhances Flexibility and Mobility
Exercise will strengthen your bones and joints. As a result, you’ll have increased flexibility and less pain, meaning you can move more quickly and take part in more activities. Studies showed that people who exercised regularly when they were younger had a better sense of balance when they were older than those who didn’t exercise. Increased mobility also means you can get around more quickly, especially if there are stairs involved. Some studies show that aerobic activity (like jogging) may delay cognitive decline by helping to keep your heart healthy—which in turn helps your brain function well.
