Years of evidence and scientific studies have proven that exercise allows us to take control of our health to a large extent. The question is – why is it so difficult then to stay active? Knowledge isn’t enough motivation even for many younger, able-bodied people, so how can we start motivating our elderly loved ones to exercise?
Motivating Loved Ones to Exercise – Encourage Small, Manageable Goals
Plan out an easy routine for your loved ones to ease into instead of going into full workout mode from the start. Starting small is different for everyone since we all have our strengths and weaknesses, but an example could be going out for a half an hour walk every week, gradually increasing the frequency to twice a week and the duration by 15 minutes as you see fit. The key here is to start with a routine so easy for your loved ones that they start feeling comfortable doing it, before increasing its intensity. When creating a habit that sticks, setting up goals that are overwhelmingly large or numerous for us is the enemy, even if motivation is high initially. A routine that is not simple enough to stick to regularly will work against us in the long run. Working towards a goal can infuse our days with energy, purpose, and pride in our accomplishments.
Motivating Loved Ones to Exercise – Add Fun to the Mix
Some people enjoy walking on a treadmill more than lifting weights. Others may find walking for extended periods extremely boring. When you encourage your loved ones to engage in activities they enjoy more, it is better than them being inactive. In order to make them stick to a routine, it’s important to create an enjoyable environment for them. Allow your elderly loved ones to start with what they enjoy but gradually pick up the pace and let them explore more things by adding other routines to the mix. The goal is for your loved ones to engage in all four types of exercise – flexibility, balance, strength, and endurance. Not only will this help to maintain overall body health, but the variety will keep their interest and motivation alive too.
Motivating Loved Ones to Exercise – Find an Accountability Partner
Sometimes, all we need is some encouragement and support from those living similar lives as us, to let us know that even if we feel like quitting, the benefits over time will outweigh the discomfort we feel while doing hard things. Finding an exercise group or accountability partner to make exercise a social activity can exponentially increase your loved one’s interest in keeping fit. Friends can share tips and strategies to use with each technique, simplifying the routines while enhancing personal friendships. At the same time, this often leads to positive thoughts instead of dreading keeping up with an active lifestyle.
Why Choose Aston Gardens At Sun City Center?
Our residents are offered a wide array of life enrichment programs and activities designed to help them maintain social, physical, intellectual, and spiritual wellness. At Aston Gardens At Sun City Center, individuals from all walks of life are welcomed to our warm and supportive community.
If you have any inquiries about living in Aston Gardens At Sun City Center, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
