Exercise is Good for Your Body and Brain

At MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, we recognize that daily exercise is essential to the wellbeing of our residents.  Research backs up that claim as the National Institute of Health (NIA) explains that seniors who stay physically active and regularly exercise receive long-term health benefits.  They state that, “it can even improve the health for some older people who already have diseases and disabilities.”

Taking part in physical activities such as walking your dog, using the stairs, or gardening as well as regular formal exercises such as weight training, tai chi, or aerobics classes are both beneficial to seniors.  Studies have found an increase in mental capacity and a slower mental decline in older adults who stay physically active as it can help to increase blood flow to all parts of the body including the brain.  The NIA also states that exercise may delay or prevent diseases like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and colon cancer, and help to reduce death and hospitalization rates.

In addition physical activities and exercises may help to improve healing in seniors, provide better balance and reduce falls, and enhance their overall quality of life.  Furthermore, the research finds that it is never too late to start exercising to receive the benefits.

Another thing to remember is that you do not need to have full mobility to start exercising as there are many exercises designed to overcome individual limitations.  Activities should include modified stretching exercises to increase flexibility, cardiovascular exercises to raise the heart rate and increase endurance, and weight training to build muscle and bone mass and improve balance. 

A few examples of Morningstar of Sparks’ activities include our Yoga and Sit & Be Fit classes as well as a fitness room, strolling paths, billiards table, and raised garden beds to make gardening easier along with other special activities.  We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about our senior living community.  In total we have 128 bright suites for independent living, 80 assisted living suites, and 32 secure suites for residents with dementia-related diseases.

MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.

Sources: nihseniorhealth.gov/exerciseforolderadults/healthbenefits/01.html

helpguide.org/articles/exercise-fitness/chair-exercises-and-limited-mobility-fitness.htm