FITNESS & EXERCISE MOVE IT OR LOSE IT
David Dominy, CEO at Royal Alfred Seafarers' Society, explains why exercise matters in our golden years.
As we journey through life, the importance of fitness and exercise becomes increasingly evident, especially in our later years. Even for those with limited mobility or recovering from injury or surgery, staying active can be a quantum leap in maintaining overall health and quality of life.
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters- magazine/activity/exercise-older-adults
Research conducted by the British Heart Foundation revealed many benefits associated with regular physical activity in older adults. From improving health conditions to mental wellbeing, exercise is a powerful tool in promoting healthy ageing. At our care home, Belvedere House, we witness this transformative impact firsthand, evidenced by our residents' enthusiasm when engaging in tailored exercise classes and physical activities.
BEWARE THE CHAIR
Sitting still for long periods in later life has a negative effect on health, whereas exercise does the exact opposite. Physically, it improves mobility, flexibility, and strength, reducing the risk of falls and fractures while supporting heart health and managing chronic conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis and diabetes.
Mentally, exercise boosts mood and reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety by releasing endorphins. Studies suggest that physical activity can slow cognitive decline and lower the risk of dementia, supporting overall brain health. Regular exercise also enhances sleep quality and mental alertness in older adults.
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters- magazine/activity/exercise-older-adults
Socially, group exercise activities encourage interaction, creating a sense of community and reducing feelings of loneliness oſten experienced by seniors. Regular physical activity builds
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confidence and self-esteem, helping them feel more in control of their own health. Moreover, it creates a sense of routine and purpose, which is crucial for mental wellbeing, especially in care settings.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/physical-activity-guide- lines-older-adults/
Experts recommend exercises such as walking, swimming, and yoga to help older adults stay active. Additionally everyday activities like dancing and playing with pets offer gentle exercise and cardio benefits, while hobbies like painting, craſting, and playing an instrument improve motor skills, coordination, and cognitive function.
ROYAL ALFRED’S INITIATIVES
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-health-benefits/
Our approach to health and fitness is far from one-size-fits- all. We offer tailored exercise programmes catering to our residents’ diverse mobility levels and health needs. These programmes include a variety of indoor and outdoor exercise opportunities, ranging from group fitness sessions to more personalised activities.
Incorporating increased activity and mobility into care routines can help roll back the effects of medical conditions, restore physical ability, address some mental health issues, and increase wellbeing. Our care staff are always on hand to support residents with different mobility levels, offering options such as chair- based exercises, walking groups, and gentle stretching routines.
In addition to regular exercise sessions, we provide physiotherapy services that help residents maintain mobility, recover from injuries, and manage chronic conditions. This comprehensive
www.tomorrowscare.co.uk
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