Seniors tend to benefit most from a well-rounded approach to fitness that includes a mix of various forms of exercise, including ones that involve the use of appropriate exercise equipment. Fortunately, there are many appealing and beneficial options with exercise-related equipment for older adults. Here are some of the top recommendations.
Elliptical Machine
Sometimes described as a mix between cross-country skiing and walking, using an elliptical machine helps with balance, coordination, and endurance. Arm levers provide added support for seniors. Most machines also have adjustable resistance, which helps senior users build muscle strength, burn calories, and get good cardio workouts.
Recumbent Bike
A recumbent bike is designed to provide the benefits of traditional cycling in a comfortable and supportive reclining position. The motions required to use the bike target many of the joints and supporting parts that help with mobility in a way that’s not too strenuous.
If you usually help your loved one exercise but need a break now and then, consider having a professional caregiver take over for you. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Roseville, CA, Home Care Assistance can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home.
Wrist/Ankle Weights
Walking is a simple and easy activity most seniors can safely do, although it doesn’t provide much resistance. One way to create some targeted resistance while walking is with wrist weights. The weights should be light enough to avoid stressing hand and wrist joints but still heavy enough to properly strengthen the soft tissues and joints that allow seniors to do things like brushing hair and teeth, stirring ingredients while cooking, and other tasks involving manual dexterity. Ankle weights can provide similar benefits for joints and tissues that support feet and maintain mobility.
Lat Pulldown Machine
Weakened muscles can contribute to posture issues and problems with spinal misalignment that could affect the upper back and neck. Lat pulldown machines help seniors minimize such issues by increasing upper back strength. Weights can be adjusted to fit capabilities, and the bar can be pulled down in front of or behind the body, depending on what’s more comfortable.
Most seniors are able to enjoy the benefits of exercise, especially with the help of trained professional caregivers. Roseville elder care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Stability Ball
Stronger core muscles make mobility easier and take stress off the spine and joints, especially ones that may already be affected by bone loss. What a stability ball does is stimulate core muscles in a way that’s not too strenuous for seniors. It can be used by simply sitting on it and maintaining stability or doing floor-based exercises that might include leg lifts and hamstring squeezes.
Rowing Machine
Another way to stimulate core muscle groups is with a rowing machine. This piece of exercise equipment also helps with endurance while providing the type of stretching that’s good for range of motion and flexibility. Rowing machines can also be adjusted to fit personal comfort while minimizing excess strain on joints and muscles.
Yoga Mat
A yoga mat is a simple piece of equipment, but it allows seniors to reap the many rewards of yoga practically anywhere. It instantly provides a steady, stable surface for a senior to go through various poses and positions while properly breathing and maintaining correct form. From enhancing posture and gently strengthening core muscle groups to promoting relaxation, there are many benefits seniors can enjoy by regularly using yoga mats, which can also be used for Pilates.
Seniors who need help exercising safely can benefit from the help of trained professional caregivers. In-home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers. Call Home Care Assistance today at (916) 226-3737 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.