Exercise has been shown to improve bone, muscle, and joint health and prevent heart disease and high blood pressure. Seniors require daily exercise to stay healthy, but it’s not always easy with mobility challenges. Luckily, there are many workout approaches your loved one can try alone or with a home care professional. Recommend the following to ensure they avoid health complications from a sedentary lifestyle.

Effective Exercises for Seniors With Mobility Challenges

1. Pillow Squeezes

Squeezing engages many muscles and can be done at any time, anywhere. Have your loved one hug a pillow tightly to engage their core and back muscles. A strong core will support the spine and prevent back pain. They can build hip and leg strength by squeezing a pillow between their legs or strengthen arm and chest muscles by squeezing a corner in their hands. Have them try three sets of 15 to get started.

2. Front Arm & Leg Raises

Front raises are good for the arms and legs. Have your loved one sit comfortably in a chair and grip the sides. They should lift their knees and extend their legs out and back. This exercise strengthens knee and hip joints and creates stronger back muscles. 

They can do the same with their arms. Raising them forward and to the sides strengthens shoulder muscles and may reduce tension in the area. Recommend incorporating light weights as your loved one progresses.

3. Side Bends & Twists

Bends and twists will build core strength and reduce tension around the spine. Have your loved one sit upright in a chair and slowly rotate their shoulders left until they’re parallel with their thigh. Hold for 30 seconds, twist to the other side, and repeat. They can then return to a front-face, raise their arms overhead, and reach to their side. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat on the other side.

Your loved one should extend their range of motion, flexibility, and ability to hold poses longer if they continue. A home care professional can provide support when they first start a new regimen.

If your loved one shows interest in starting an exercise regimen and needs an extra hand at home, contact This Is It Home Care of Florissant, MO. This agency connects seniors and their families with a variety of care services. From assisted living to private nursing and Alzheimer’s care, they’ll take every step to ensure your loved one has everything they need. Call 636-724-2273 to speak with a representative and visit their website to explore all their services.