Healthy senior living should involve regular stretching and exercise. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of falling and fracturing bones or developing heart disease. If you’re working as a caregiver, here are a few stretches you should try with seniors to keep them healthy.

What Are the Best Stretches for Seniors?

1. Ankle Circles

For seniors who want to remain independent, even with a caregiver, it’s essential to focus on balance. Balance is a crucial element in walking and other daily activities. Ankle circles are a great way to work on balance and make your legs stronger. From a chair, raise one leg and move the ankle in a clockwise and counter-clockwise direction 20 times before repeating with the other foot. 

2. Knee to Chest

To prevent joints from becoming stiff, it’s essential to keep them moving, starting with a knee-to-chest stretch. From a seated position, lift one knee up and gently pull it toward your chest like you’re hugging it. After a few seconds, lower your leg to the ground, before repeating on the opposite side.

3. Neck Stretches

If you’re sitting most of the day, you will find that your neck becomes tight. By sitting upright in a chair, tilt your head to one side and place a hand on your head as you slowly pull it in that direction. After holding for 30 seconds, repeat on the other side. This stretch is also one that can be done when waking up in the morning if you slept awkwardly.

If you’re a caregiver and are looking to get more assistance for your loved one, contact Deer Valley Home Health Services. With locations in Berkeley, St. Charles, and St. Louis, MO, they’ve been providing quality services to families with teens with special needs, seniors, and also veterans for over 10 years. To learn more about their services, visit them online, or call (314) 355-3679 to find a home health aid today.