As people age into their golden years, their ability to walk, move, and keep their balance begins to diminish. However, staying active with regular exercise not only improves physical and mental health but also allows seniors to manage their everyday tasks without assistance. Many older adults who want to remain independent embrace the benefits of living in active seniors apartments. Here are a few ways exercise boosts self-sufficiency. 

How Exercise Promotes Independence in Older Adults 

1. Supports Bone Health 

The body loses muscle and bone mass in older age, causing instability and increasing the likelihood of fractures and concussions that undermine independent living.  Weight training and muscle-strengthening workouts can help seniors forestall the loss of bone and muscle mass and, thereby, avoid such age-related conditions as osteoporosis and osteopenia. 

2. Prevents Falls 

Some seniors may never regain their mobility after a fall. Because they can lead to loss of independence, falls are especially concerning to elder care physicians and caregivers. By taking yoga and Pilates classes—two exercise regimes that improve balance and core strength—seniors develop the flexibility to keep from falling.  Several other classes can be sought out through local senior centers, county aging units, fitness centers, or in-house activities.

3. Reduces Risk of Dementia 

Participating in a workout or an exercise regimen delivers oxygen to the brain and removes wastes from muscles and organs.  Without adequate blood flow to the brain, a person’s memory, cognitive processing, and problem-solving abilities can suffer, eventually leading to dementia and the end of independent living in active seniors apartments or community.

4. Increases Flexibility & Range of Motion 

As people grow older, their joints can deteriorate, and they may lose their normal range of motion.  Exercise can slow physical debilitation.  For any senior who wants to remain living in an active seniors apartment where they can cook, bathe, and dress themselves, exercising to retain flexibility and mobility is the key to self-reliance and independence.

The staff and caregivers at Bethany St. Joseph Corporation understand the value and importance of maintaining independence while growing older. For more than 40 years, they have provided clean, comfortable, and safe active seniors apartments that support independent living. They offer units of all sizes with convenient locations in La Crosse, Onalaska, Holmen, West Salem, Galesville, and Westby, WI. If you or an elderly loved one is looking for a new place to call home, contact them at (608) 783-1516 to inquire about rates and availability. You can also visit their website for more information about their housing options.