Many factors can cause your elderly loved one to lead a sedentary lifestyle. Perhaps they live alone and are distanced from a social network to engage in activities with. Perhaps they are suffering from chronic pain or illness, and find it difficult to get around. It is also possible that they may be suffering from depression, or another condition that makes it difficult for them to motivate themselves to take part in activities that engage their body and mind. Whatever the cause, a sedentary lifestyle is still harmful for your elderly loved one. Those in their 60s and above who do not incorporate physical activities into their daily lives are not just missing out on some great health benefits, they are also putting their emotional and mental health in danger. Here are some reasons why a sedentary lifestyle can be harmful for your elderly loved one.
Increases the Risk of Depression
Physical activity has been shown to improve mood and help regulate emotions. While exercise may be the last thing your loved one wants to do if they are suffering from depression, it can have great benefits. This is also true for those with memory-related diagnoses, some of the symptoms of which include depression. In addition to therapy or medication, ensuring that your loved one has a good exercise regimen in place can help combat some of the effects of depression.
Increases Difficulty of Performing Daily Living Activities
When the body is not getting enough physical activity on a regular basis, muscles begin to atrophy. This can cause problems for your loved one while trying to perform their daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing and eating. If your loved one doesn’t already have an exercise routine in place, it’s a good idea to ease them into it. A low impact exercise like Tai Chi is a good place to start, especially if it can be performed in a group so that your loved one can experience the benefits of socialization and practice with professionals for added safety.
Quickens Bone Loss
Adults in their 60s are at a higher risk of experiencing bone loss, and this risk is compounded for those who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Having a regular exercise regimen or engaging in an active lifestyle not only improves overall fitness but encourages your loved one’s bones to remain strong and healthy.
Increases Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
When your muscles aren’t engaged adequately after meals, your body becomes unable to process sugar properly. This raises blood levels, which then leads to Type 2 diabetes.
Get Your Loved One Moving Today
As you can see, it’s important that your loved one leads an active lifestyle. Now that spring is here, why not encourage them to take advantage of the warmer weather with our guide for staying active in spring? At Aston Gardens At Pelican Marsh, our Independent Senior Living and Senior Assisted Living programs provide our residents with access to state-of-the-art exercise equipment and plenty of opportunities to engage in physical group activities. Contact us today to find out more.
