For Hometown News
According to Centers for Disease Control, one of the most important things older adults can do for their health is regular physical activity.
Sandra Davis, executive director of Grand Villa of Ormond Beach, a community providing assisted living, personal care, senior day program and respite care, is committed to helping seniors keep fit by sharing tips on alternative forms of exercise.
Seniors are most receptive to physical activity when they have individualized plans that fit both their lifestyle and interests. Ms. Davis adds that these plans can be developed by caregivers, therapists, nurses, assisted living activities staff or even the senior themselves, but reminds that all such plans should be discussed with the person's physician first.
Integrating modified, low-impact activities, like yoga and Tai Chi for example, into seniors' exercise plans increases the likelihood that they will commit to a new, healthy lifestyle and keep it up.
Regular activity lowers risk factors linked to the development of chronic diseases, such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and many others. It can also reduce arthritis pain, anxiety and depression.