Why Is Walking A Great Exercise For Seniors?

Assisted Living

With age workouts like running can become difficult for us. This is why many seniors who wish to remain active switch to walking as an aerobic exercise. The list of benefits obtained through walking regularly is a long one. This is why senior care and assisted living facilities encourage their residents to walk regularly.

Benefits Of Walking For Elders 

Walking can be a great exercise for seniors and the two main reasons for this is that it is easy to get started and that it is completely free. To start walking, all you need is a comfortable pair of shoes, proper clothing that is suitable for the weather, and a path or sidewalk. As soon as you start to walk regularly, you will experience the many benefits like:

Increased Bone Strength 

Many studies have shown that walking for thirty minutes can help prevent bone loss in people suffering from osteoporosis. This can decrease the chances of broken bones and hip fractures which is common among seniors.

Improved Mood 

Walking and other such exercises and make the body release endorphins that can help elevate mood and decrease pain. This can improve the mood and overall well-being of the person.

Improved Blood Circulation 

Walking can help increase your heart rate which can strengthen your heart and help it pump blood more efficiently through your body. Besides, walking decreases blood pressure thereby reducing chances of stroke and heart diseases.

Weight Management 

Walking for half an hour at a brisk pace can help burn about 200 calories and together with a balanced diet, it can help you maintain a healthy body weight, which is very important for seniors.

Stronger Muscles 

Regular walking can help strengthen the muscles of the abdomen, legs, and other parts which can improve your overall health.

Decrease The Chances Of Mental Decline 

Studies show that people who walk regularly have a decreased chance of diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Healthy Joints 

Most of the cartilages in our body do not have a direct supply of blood and instead get nutrition from the synovial fluid. The circulation of this fluid is improved by walking and hence helps improve the health of joints.

Better Sleep 

Studies show that people who walk regularly have less insomnia when compared to people who do not walk regularly.

Improved Respiration 

Walking can increase the rate of respiration and its depth, which can help move more oxygen into the blood. The increased availability of oxygen can better support the tissues and organs in our body.