Attaining fitness is not a one-time event; the road to fitness is a lifelong journey. It turns out that not exercising is considered more harmful to your health diabetes, smoking, and heart disease! This new data comes from a longitudinal study of more than 120,000 individuals from 1991 to 2014. What makes it so unique is that it relied upon gathered data from participants involved in a treadmill cardiovascular test rather than self-reports so the information could be considered reliable. These findings are astounding and there are real-world applications for everyone, no matter their age.

Champion Home Health Care of Melbourne, FL has the honor of serving seniors in Brevard County with professional in-home health care services ranging from light housework to acute care and recovery. We know that seniors are often wary of beginning or maintaining an exercise regimen, but the consequences of not doing so are profound. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why daily exercise is so important.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, at least 80% of adults do not meet the advised standards for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities. Of adults over the age of 75, just 30% to 44% are even physically active. There are naturally times in life when physical activity cannot happen. Seniors often face medical complications that can create obstacles to everyday fitness, but, generally speaking, there are activities they can still participate in.

So, what are the benefits of physical movement?

Weight Management

Your metabolism will slow with age but exercises assist your body in this area and can help you lose or maintain weight.

Disease Management

When you do not feel well, especially due to a chronic illness or disease, exercise may be the furthest thing from your mind. However, finding a way to move your body will help with immunity, pain management, and even your mood. It won’t be easy, but you are strong. If this is your situation, you can speak with our qualified nurses or seek assistance at a local gym for more guidance.

Keeps You Straight

As we age, our joints tend to stiffen and movement and coordination often suffer. According to the CDC, more than one-fourth of all Americans over the age of 65 falls each year, and these are just the numbers of those who actually report a fall. One of the best things you can do as you age is to protect your mobility and balance by continuing to be active in ways that work best for you.

It is easy to say, “I know I need to exercise.” But, science has now proven that inactivity is so much worse for you than some of the major conditions that Americans are likely to develop. You don’t have to run a marathon. You don’t have to become a power-lifter, but you do need to move.