Best exercises for elderly people to stay fit and healthy

Exercise is good for people of any age, and there are many ways for those who are older to get active and fit. Seniors can tailor a number of exercises to meet their needs, and the proper mindset that comes from regular exercise helps them stay physically and mentally fit. The best exercises for elderly people engage all areas of the body while remaining accessible and at a milder pace.

Regular exercise helps maintain independence well into the senior years. In some cases, it wards off dementia and improves the brain's overall function, according to WebMD. Maintaining the body's agility and mobility allows you to continue to do the things you love well into your golden years.

Walking at brisk paces or jogging increases breathing and heart rate, which gives your heart and lungs a workout. Over time, they build up endurance so you can do longer distances for greater lengths of time. Swimming, dancing and biking are other aerobic activities that help your lungs and heart function better.

Elderly people often worry about falling and sustaining a broken bone, but balance exercises may prevent you from inadvertently falling and they are not difficult. You can purchase an exercise step that's not very high. Step up and down off the step at a slow pace. You can do your step workout to a bit of music to help you achieve an even motion to the music's beat.

Another ideal balance exercise is for you to face a wall, place both of your hands against the wall and lift one foot off the floor for 10 seconds at a time.

You can perform strength exercises from a standing or sitting position; you will also need a couple of lightweight dumbbells or simple water bottles. Hold a dumbbell or water bottle in one hand and curl your arm by bending your elbow to bring the bottle or dumbbell level to your shoulder. Do several curls each day to build arm strength.

To work out your legs, hold on to the back of a chair and lift one leg at a time, alternating legs as you go. Hold each leg in a lifted position for five seconds before lowering it to the floor and lifting the other leg.

Bend your head towards your shoulder as far as it will go. This simple action can be done from a seated or standing position and will help maintain your neck's flexibility. Raising one shoulder and arm at a time will also help keep your upper body flexible. Hold each stretch exercise for five to 10 seconds.

It does not matter how old you are; exercise will benefit you. These best exercises for elderly people will keep you in good shape for a long while.