As we age, both our bodies and minds are more prone to pain and malfunction. This is a major challenge for many seniors, who are used to being active and staying healthy. If you or a loved one is struggling with chronic physical or mental pain, there are many things you can do at home or in senior living that will make a big difference. Here are some of the most effective exercises to help seniors reduce pain and improve mental functioning, particularly for those in assisted senior living.
Meditation
Meditation is an incredible exercise for both physical and mental health. Just spending a few minutes a day meditating not only helps to clear your head, but also reduces physical stress as well. Meditation helps reduce muscle tension and can even help you keep your blood pressure down. There are many different types of meditation to choose from, and it can be done independently or using a guided program. If you are spiritual, there are many types of meditation that incorporate aspects of religion, but there are also many secular ways to meditate.
Swimming
For seniors that want to maintain a cardio workout routine, swimming is a very efficient option. It’s very gentle on the bones because there isn’t any impact, but it still keeps your muscles toned and burns calories to keep weight down. Being in the water can also be very soothing both mentally and physically. The feeling of floating in the water is very relaxing if you suffer from chronic pain.
Yoga
Yoga is an incredible form of exercise for seniors that incorporates relaxation and meditation. There are many different types of yoga, ranging from active flow yoga to a more gentle stretch class. The physical exercises in yoga increase flexibility and strengthen muscles, both of which relieve chronic pain. Yoga is also very helpful for relaxing at the end of a difficult day, as the classes are designed to be soothing, even when they are intense physically.
Walking
Many seniors who used to run when they were younger struggle to find an exercise they love just as much. Walking is a good way to fill that void that’s much more gentle and easy on the body. Taking walks outside is a great way to clear your head, enjoy the beauty of nature around you, and burn calories in a way that isn’t too intense. If you have a dog, you can use their daily walks as a form of exercise as well. Spending time with an animal is incredibly soothing and great for your mental health, as well as your physical health. If you decide to incorporate walks into your routine, just be sure to get supportive walking shoes to keep your bones and muscles in good alignment.
Resistance Bands
Maintaining strength is very important for seniors as they transition into retirement. Many seniors become more sedentary in their older age, which can increase chronic pain because the bones and muscles become weak. Resistance bands are something you can easily keep at home and use to improve strength and muscle articulation throughout your body. Resistance bands provide a bit of extra challenge when you’re doing physical therapy or pilates exercises, which naturally encourages the muscles to build up strength.
Creative Activities
Many seniors struggle with mental health challenges as they transition into retirement or a new form of senior housing, such as memory care homes. Understandably, being in a new environment can be very overwhelming and cause high levels of stress. One of the best ways to relieve this stress is by participating in creative hobbies and activities, such as drawing, playing music, writing, or even dancing. Most assisted living homes provide opportunities for seniors to explore these new activities in a safe and supportive environment. Participating in creative hobbies and pursuits gives you a way to express yourself, which is very beneficial for mental health. When you are mentally healthy, you are also much less likely to experience chronic pain that comes along with stress.
Chair Exercises
It can be very frustrating when you want to exercise but are limited by mobility issues or a lack of stamina that comes with getting older. Many assisted living facilities now offer chair exercise classes to mitigate this problem. These classes provide exercises that work on cardio, strength, and flexibility, but using a chair for assistance. This means that even seniors with mobility issues can participate, and once you learn the exercises, you can do them on your own as well. Over time, having a dedicate exercise regimen will reduce the chronic pain you experience. Taking exercise classes with other seniors is also a good way to socialize with your peers, which is very helpful for mental health.
Cycling
Another form of cardio exercise that many seniors enjoy is cycling. Cycling is a great choice for older adults because there isn’t any impact. You can choose to cycle outside, although it’s important to note that this can be somewhat dangerous if you are cycling on a crowded road. There are also cycling machines at the gym. You can choose between the upright and the recumbent bicycle, both of which are very effective. Many seniors prefer the recumbent bicycle, because it’s a bit easier on your back and feels more relaxing while still getting a good workout in.
Regardless of what exercises you choose to do, staying active in general is the best way to reduce chronic pain. Your mental state and your chronic pain also go hand in hand. When you take steps to reduce your chronic pain, you’ll likely find yourself feeling more relaxed, and when you take time to relax your mind, you will probably find yourself in less pain as well.
Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen to make sure you are doing it safely. Your doctor will be able to address any health concerns you have about exercising and mental health treatment, and they can answer any other senior living help questions you may have as well.
If you found value in this article, please use the social sharing icons at the top of this post and please share with those you know who are still suffering with chronic health challenges or autoimmune issues despite having medical managment. Thank you, help me reach more people so they may regain their zest for living!
Always remember one of my mantras., "The more you know about how your body works, the better you can take care of yourself."
For more details about the natural approach I take with my patients, take a look at the book I wrote entitled: Reclaim Your Life; Your Guide To Revealing Your Body's Life-Changing Secrets For Renewed Health. It is available in my office or at Amazon and many other book outlets. If you found value in this article, please use the social sharing icons at the top of this post and please share with those you know who are still suffering with chronic health challenges, despite receiving medical management. Help me reach more people so they may regain their zest for living! Thank you!
ALL THE BEST – DR. KARL R.O.S. JOHNSON, DC – DIGGING DEEPER TO FIND SOLUTIONS
Author Bio:
Holly Klamer loves to write on issues related to seniors, aging and retirement. Holly is a frequent contributor on Senior Guidance and Senior Living Help that help provide comprehensive resources on various senior living options.
