Staying active in your assisted living facility is a great way to improve your quality of life and promote good health. It’s important to know what your body can handle, so talk with your doctor about any of the following exercises that interest you to ensure they’re appropriate for you to perform.
Stretching
If you sit or lie in the same position the majority of your daily life, your muscles can contract, which affects your body’s normal ability to move. Stretching helps avoid muscle contraction and can give your body a better range of motion.
This type of exercise is great for those confined to a wheelchair, as stretching can be done without leaving your seat. It’s very low-impact and can provide immediate comfort. Whether your wheelchair leaves you with a sore and achy back, or your legs feel tight and stiff from sitting all day, stretching is great for any part of your body.
Walking
Walking is another relatively low-impact activity that can help keep you active. Pick flat, even surfaces to walk on, and start with short walks, gradually making your way to longer ones. If you have trouble with balance and stability, you can still take advantage of this type of exercise by utilizing a cane or walker.
Walking is best done indoors throughout the facility or outside on community grounds—which allows you to get some fresh air and enjoy the weather at the same time.
Weights
Weight training isn’t just for buff young gym-goers. With light weights and low repetitions, you can increase your muscle strength a little at a time without compromising your muscle health or risking injury. If you feel more comfortable, have someone nearby when you are training with even light weights, so they can assist you if you begin to feel any pain or discomfort.
Yoga
Yoga is a more intricate form of stretching that can be easily learned and practiced. This type of exercise helps keep your body flexible, promotes relaxation, increases strength, and even has mental health benefits as well. The meditation phases of yoga are designed to create a peaceful connection between mind, body, and soul.
Kenwood Care is a Maryland assisted living facility group with four convenient locations throughout Howard County. We have over 20 years of experience in caring for senior citizens and specialize in providing a comfortable, functional, and home-like environment for all of our residents. Contact us today for a consultation, or to learn more about our services.