It’s Time for Seniors to Step Into Better Health, Fitness

Q.   I’ve decided to take up walking regularly at age 80 because my doctor says it will help lower my blood pressure. But on some mornings, I just can’t seem to get out the door, partly because no one is there to order me to get out of the house. Toward the end of the week, I’m not sure if I’ll muster the strength to clean the house for possible visits from relatives if I’m walking so much. Is there a solution?

You’re on the right track. Regular walking, a favorite exercise for seniors, is one of the most effective forms of activity that delivers substantial health benefits and improves heart health, the American Heart Association has said. The latest addition to the American Heart Association’s tools for persuading people to exercise is walking clubs, which are being formed across the United States.

Walking is easy to start and continue, and has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity. By joining or forming an American Heart Association Walking Club, participants can connect with others who share their goals, lifestyles, schedules and hobbies – and do it for free. An American Heart Association study revealed that American adults are 76 percent more likely to take a walk if another person is counting on them.

 “I encourage our patients to engage in regular exercise, including moderate-to-vigorous intensity walking programs, and the American Heart Association’s new Walking Clubs are a great resource,” said Barry A. Franklin, Ph.D., Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation and Exercise Laboratories at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Mich.

According to an American Heart Association survey, 15 percent of American adults achieve the association’s recommended level of moderate aerobic exercise, which is 150 minutes per week. Walking for as little
as 30 minutes a day will improve circulation, lower cholesterol and blood
pressure, and promote weight loss.

Congratulations on your intention to walk. Here’s a suggestion that could help you on two fronts: consider a Home Instead CAREGiverSM.

Your local Home Instead Senior Care® office could find someone who would walk with you or help you find a walking club. And the CAREGiver also could help you – for even just a few hours a week – with light housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders and transportation needs.

For more information about Home Instead
Senior Care®, contact Sharon Massafra at 203-386-1151 or go to http://www.homeinstead.com/307. For more information about walking clubs,
visit www.mywalkingclub.org.