Maintaining an Active Lifestyle as You Age
Tue, Mar 31st, 2020
Most of us have experienced how family members handle the aging process. You might have had an uncle or grandpa who thought they were indestructible; refusing to go for walks, arguing with family members when they would try to get them to be active, and possibly persuading the enabling spouse to wait on them hand and foot. Convincing a loved one that they need to maintain an active lifestyle can be a daunting task. But for their sake it's imperative they do so.
In this blog, we'll discuss the importance of being active and why it's especially critical as you age.
Start Early
Many people like the term "better late than never", but we prefer "never late is better". Yes, of course, it's better to start exercising late in life (with your doctor's consent) than to not do it at all. But for so many senior citizens, neglecting physical activity for decades has wreaked havoc on their mind and body. Making exercise a part of your daily routine in your 20s, 30s and 40s will make the transition much easier once you've become a senior citizen. Preventative maintenance in your younger years will allow you to be more active and avoid health problems later in life.
What Can Happen if I Don't Exercise?
Lots of people can avoid health problems in their 20s and 30s without an exercise routine. But if you're in your 40s and 50s and are trying to lead the same unhealthy lifestyle as you were 10-20 years prior, the risk of heart disease, obesity and other potential problems increases significantly. About 10% of the population between the ages of 20-39 years old have some type of cardiovascular disease. That percentage nearly quadruples to 40% of the population between the ages of 40-59. Approximately 85% of the population over 80 years old have heart disease.
Many of these individuals could have avoided cardiovascular problems by maintaining a consistent workout routine, a healthy diet and listening to their loved ones and doctors.
Consult With Your Doctor
We're not going to sit here and tell you what exercise you should be doing because every case is different. Some individuals in their 80s can walk nine holes of golf three days per week and some struggle to walk to the kitchen for breakfast. Consult with your doctor and develop a plan that isn't too strenuous, yet will help develop a healthy heart and increase stamina.
How Can Bell House Medical Help?
With nearly two-thirds of cardiovascular deaths happening to people 75 years or older, it's important to help that demographic any way possible. Bell House Medical offers numerous mobility solution products to help you navigate inside or outside of your home, such as scooters, power wheelchairs, walkers, canes, etc.
During this time, we are offering pick up and delivery services. Give us a call if you have any questions during these uncertain times. Thank you and be safe!
(302) 644-4404
Source: heart.org