What Are The Benefits Of Walking For Houston Seniors?
In the past, walking was essentially the only transportation method that humans had available. Getting around meant using your own two feet, but luckily, the human body was well-designed for that. As time went by, new ways to get around developed, such as bicycles, horses, and cars. Modern individuals find themselves even looking for the parking spot nearest the door as they head to the store, just so they can avoid the long walk inside.
There are specific benefits of walking that simply can’t be overlooked, especially for seniors. Adding a half-hour of walking to your daily routine improves your overall health and can help you avoid a sedentary lifestyle, which can be unhealthy.
Walking is one of the overall best exercises for seniors, it is a good way to reduce the chances of chronic conditions while improving your health overall. Some of the benefits of walking regularly for seniors are:
Improves Heart Health
Walking provides seniors with numerous benefits for their heart health. Increasing your heart rate daily can lead to a reduced risk for high cholesterol and high blood pressure, as well as lowering the risk of heart disease.
Lowers Blood Sugar
A short walk after you eat can reduce the blood sugar spike that some individuals experience after a meal. When you do this, your body utilizes blood sugar more efficiently to make your muscles stronger, and insulin works more effectively, as well.
Limit Pain
Walking can also help limit the pain that some people experience chronic illnesses like arthritis. Some seniors may have lower back pain, and walking just a few times a week for short time periods can help decrease back pain and make back and abdominal muscles stronger.
Low Cost To Participation
Once you’ve purchased a high-quality pair of shoes, walking is essentially free. When the weather is nice, walk around your neighborhood or head to a local park or trail. If it’s cold or wet outside, consider walking at your local mall instead.
Promote Social Interaction
Walking is a good way for senior adults to meet up with others, whether you’re just meeting people around the neighborhood or joining an organized walking group. You can get out and interact with the environment every day, seeing different things. This daily change can be great for your state of mind, helping you to stay active an enjoy the world around you.
Improve Mental Health
Walking daily may help you to feel better about life overall. It releases endorphins, so you may have less anxiety, improved mood, and an overall sense of well-being.
How To Add Walking To Your Day
Add walking to your daily routine so that you can begin to enjoy the benefits. Purchase a pair of sneakers that are supportive and comfortable, then work out a familiar route that doesn’t include obstacles. Select an area with a soft, smooth surface to avoid straining your joints. Start off with short walks, then slowly add on more time or walk faster. Dress for the weather, and make sure that you drink enough water. If you’re in pain, stop and take a break, and talk to your doctor if it continues.
With all this in mind please feel free to give us a call or contact us today with any questions that you might have. For some more tips on how to care for your loved one visit our blog!
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