Health and Wellness for Seniors: Exercise

Benefits of Exercise in Older Age

Increases mental capacity

Research links physical activity with slower mental decline. Exercise increases blood flow to all parts of the body, including our brain.

Prevents disease

Exercise is beneficial in preventing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Exercise can also delay or prevent many diseases associated with aging, such as diabetes, colon cancer, heart disease, stroke, and more.

Improves healing

Injuries can take longer to heal as people age. Regular exercise may speed up the wound-healing process by as much as 25 percent.

Increases balance

Exercise can help improve balance, which can help prevent falls. Falls are a major cause of broken hips and other injuries that often lead to disability and hospitalization in older adults.

Weekly Exercise Routine for Seniors

Monday	Tuesday	Wendesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
15-minute walk twice a day	15-minute walk twice a day	30 minutes swimming, aerobics, etc.	Rest	15-minute walk twice a day	30 minutes swimming, aerobics, etc.	Rest
Strength	Rest	Rest	Rest	Strength	Rest	Rest
Balance	Balance	Balance	Rest	Balance	Balance	Rest
Flexibility	Flexibility	Flexibility	Rest	Flexibility	Flexibility	Rest