Staying in shape is important at any age, but it’s especially crucial for the elderly. Regular exercise prevents weight gain, improves balance and flexibility, slows memory loss, and promotes better sleep. If your loved one has chosen to age in place, encourage them to do the following activities at home—with the help of a caregiver if necessary—to remain fit and healthy.

What Exercises Should Your Loved One Try at Home?

1. Dancing

Dancing is excellent for getting the heart pumping, which will lower your loved one's blood pressure and improve their mood. Help them set up a speaker system in an area of the home with plenty of floor space, and create a playlist of their favorite tunes they can bend, twist, and shimmy to.

2. Stretching

Stretching is crucial before exercise because it warms up the muscles and increases flexibility. Seniors should stretch daily, even before doing something as simple as going for a walk, to prevent falls and injuries.

3. Chair Squats

Squats strengthen the core and lower body, and they’re safer for seniors to do than climbing stairs or using gym equipment. Chair squats involve standing in front of a chair and pushing the hips back while bending the knees to lower into the chair before rising again.

4. Wall Pushups

Wall pushups are less strenuous than regular pushups, which is why they’re perfect for seniors. To do these pushups, your loved one should stand about two feet away from an open wall and put their hands on it. Next, have them bend their elbows to lean toward the wall, allowing their heels to rise off the ground before pushing back to their original position.

If you’re looking for an in-home caregiver who will prioritize your aging loved one’s health and wellbeing, get in touch with Compass Homecare. They offer personal care services, ranging from bathing and grooming to meal preparation and housekeeping, to clients throughout Anchorage, AK. Call (907) 276-6960 to hire a caregiver and set up a daily schedule, or visit their website to learn more about their “peace of mind” package.