Physical activity plays an important role in the lives of seniors because it helps keep them fit and contributes to improved health and overall quality of life. There are a variety of physical activities that a senior can practise and can do together with his or her caregiver or the caregiver who is looking after them. Movement prevents both muscle wasting and osteoporosis – the thinning of bones that puts seniors at risk. Performing physical activities has a positive effect on the heart, lungs, and blood circulation, and thus serves as heart attack prevention. Of course, a given sport activity must meet the individual needs of each senior, who may suffer from various ailments and limitations due to his or her age.
Hiking and nature walks
Any senior who is still mobile will benefit from a lighter hike and a walk in the countryside, taking in the views – especially in the coming spring, when nature is waking up. The walk can be combined with foraging for mushrooms or collecting herbs that make good tea or meadow flowers. Seniors are among the people who are delighted by every little thing. Being in the fresh air has a beneficial effect not only on the health of the body, but also on the spirit. In addition, it will ensure better quality sleep. Today, trekking poles are popular. Walking helps maintain good joint mobility and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. If the senior is not very keen on walking, it is a good idea to motivate him and take him to his favourite places, for example, where he used to go a lot in his youth. It’ll lift his spirits.
Even though the patient is immobile and uses a wheelchair to get around, it is still possible to take him for a walk in the countryside to get some fresh air. The most ideal option is to stay in the park. In Atena for each job offer we also publish photos from the places where the patient is staying and where the work will be performed. These can become a source of inspiration for a walk combined with relaxation. Thanks to this activity, caregiver will get to know the place of work and the new country a little better.
Cycling and swimming
For fitter seniors, cycling is suitable, as it strengthens both leg and arm muscles. It can improve coordination and is gentle on the joints. In case the senior is worse off with movement, there are also electric bicycles. When cycling, the established principles must be followed – think about protective headgear and reflective elements when cycling in twilight or darkness. Swimming is a physical activity that does not put too much strain or stress on joints, so it can be done by people with arthritis or other mobility problems. Cross-country skiing is an equally appropriate activity to do with a senior, as it can be done at different speeds and for different distances.
Exercise
Exercises suitable for seniors include various types. One of them is pilates – an exercise that improves posture, stability and flexibility of the musculoskeletal system. You should start with easier exercises first, then move on to more challenging ones. This exercise is also for people who suffer from spinal problems. It focuses on strengthening and stretching the muscles, which helps relieve pain. Yoga is another type of exercise that is beneficial for mental health. The practice includes meditation and breathing exercises that relieve anxiety, tension and stress. A good leisure activity is dancing. It improves your mood and helps to maintain good mental health. There are different types that contain easy-to-remember steps. Moreover, learning them improves and enriches memory.
Non-traditional (not only) movement activities
It is also possible to do activities with seniors that are not quite ordinary, but which are sure to interest them and entertain them. This includes petanque, which is characterised by its slow and calm play and the fact that it does not require much physical effort. Paddleboarding is an interesting water sport suitable for all ages and seniors are no exception. It consists in rowing on a board standing or sitting, which engages the muscles of the whole body and improves the sense of balance. The popular darts are also a good idea to spend time with a senior, which will improve their concentration, as accuracy and concentration are required when playing the game – hitting the darts on the target. By carrying out the above activities, seniors can lead an active lifestyle even in old age.
Also in Atena we encourage physical and sporting activities to help relax the mind and recharge the batteries that will help with future work performance. Each month we have the teambuildin for which we choose an interesting leisure activity. Recently we went to jump on the trampolines or play badminton.
