5 Common Myths about Seniors and Exercise
The older you get the more important exercise and rehabilitation become. At the Davis Community, we have a pavilion for fitness and rehabilitation in Wilmington NC that is instrumental in our residents’ lives. They enjoy all of the benefits that come with it, like daily exercise, more energy, mental clarity, greater flexibility and mobility, less pain, and more independence.
As important as daily exercise is, not all seniors engage in it. In fact, many suffer as a result of their misunderstanding or misconceptions. Here, we take a look at the five most common myths surrounding seniors and exercise and we get to the truth of the matter.
Myth #1 – It’s Not Worth Exercising Once You Reach a Certain Age
The truth is exercise is essential for healthy living regardless of your age. Seniors who exercise are shown to have a reduced risk of heart disease, colon cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. They also tend to look and feel younger than they are and they enjoy significantly more active lifestyles.
Myth #2 – It is Better for Seniors to Rest and Conserve Their Energy Than Exercise
Daily exercise actually increases energy levels, especially in seniors. It also promotes more restful sleep at night which is important for healing and rejuvenation. On the other hand, a sedentary lifestyle is proven to lead to more health problems, hospitalizations, doctor visits, and medications.
Myth #3 – Exercise Increases the Risk of Injury in Seniors
When practiced properly, daily exercise is completely safe for seniors. In fact, it helps build one’s strength while reducing the loss of bone mass, which is actually effective at helping seniors improve their balance, thus reducing the risk of falling.
Myth #4 – I’m Too Old to Start Exercising Now
It’s never too late to start exercising. Even if you have never exercised before, anything you do now will help improve your health, flexibility, and mobility. Start with a light program like walking, Tai Chi, and other gentle exercises and you will gradually notice yourself becoming stronger.
Myth #5 – I’m Disabled and Incapable of Exercising
If you are disabled or chair-bound then you can still partake in certain exercises suitable to your abilities. Today, there is a wide selection of activities disabled individuals can perform, from strength training for the upper body to cardiovascular and range of motion exercises.
The Davis Community Wellness Pavilion Offers Rehabilitation in Wilmington NC
If your aging parent needs assisted living services or they need rehabilitation in Wilmington NC, pay a visit to the Davis Community. Our community is active and engaging and we have a state-of-the-art wellness pavilion that will help your loved one get the daily exercise and rehab services they need to enjoy a better quality of life. Visit our Facebook page to learn more about our fitness center.
If you have any questions or you would like more information about the Davis Community Rehabilitation and Wellness Pavilion, please give us a call at 910-566-1200 today.