The older you get, the more critical physical activity becomes. Whether you take part in a jogging group or opt for a weekly yoga class in your senior living community, there are plenty of exercise options out there. Here are a few benefits of staying physically active in your golden years.

How Exercise Can Improve Quality of Life for Seniors

1. Increased Immune Functioning

Physical activity intensifies your breathing, which can help flush bacteria out of the lungs and airways. Not only can this reduce your chances of coming down with a cold or the flu, but it also improves your white blood cell functioning, which helps fight off more serious ailments.

2. Decreased Risk of Falls

Falls become more dangerous as you age, so it’s ideal to avoid them at all costs. Through physical exercise, you can improve coordination and balance, which makes you less susceptible to falls. Exercise also builds up your strength and flexibility, making it less perilous if you do have a random slip.

3. Improved Well-Being & Socialization

For people of all ages, exercise is a helpful stress reliever and can assist in warding off feelings of anxiety and depression. Improving your health and wellness later in life can help you feel more confident and give you an excuse to socialize with peers, warding off the loneliness that can often come with age. Find an exercise you love, and it will be easy to work physical activity into your routine.

4. Enhanced Cognitive Function

Physical activity is proven to assist with memory retention and higher cognitive functioning. For older adults, this can mean fine-tuned motor skills, a lower risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, and an improved overall quality of life.

5. Healthier Weight & BMI

Metabolism naturally slows as people age, which makes it harder to maintain a healthy weight. Not only can exercise increase your metabolism and overall health, but it also builds muscle mass. This can help you burn more calories in the long run and maintain a healthier lifestyle.

If you’re in search of a senior living community with a fitness room, check out Traditional Trades Inc. in Onalaska, WI. Providing luxury senior living apartments and retirement condominiums for over three decades, they offer thriving and safe communities eligible for seniors 55 and over. Call (608) 783-4785 to schedule an appointment, or visit the senior living community online for more information.