Walking is Great Exercise for Seniors

Experts agree that walking is beneficial to seniors’ health as it can stop bone mass loss, strengthen leg and abdominal muscles, and improve circulation by helping to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk for heart disease.  Walking can also lead to weight loss or help to maintain your weight, help you sleep better, increase your mental sharpness, and improve balance and stability.  It can even increase your lifespan.  However, if you have not exercised in a while, doctors recommend you start slowly and only gradually increase your distance and pace.

If you let your health care provider know you are going to start walking, they can help you determine a safe starting point.  From the onset you may only be able to walk a block, but over time, you will be able to go farther and should start noticing benefits fairly quickly.  Additionally, experts say even if you need a cane or a walker to safely move about, don’t let that stop you from walking, just take it with you.  Also wear properly fitted comfortable shoes that provide good arch support.   If you have foot problems, talk to your doctor about orthopedic shoes. 

Remember do not overexert yourself.  Walk at a safe pace and keep in mind that the most important thing is to just get started.  For your safety, tuck your cell phone into a pocket that you can easy get to if the need arises and stay hydrated.  To help keep you motivated, walk with a buddy or join a walking group. 

At MorningStar of Sparks, we wholeheartedly agree that exercise is important for seniors and residents can walk on the grounds as well as participate in other scheduled exercise classes or use the well-equipped fitness room.  Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful independent living, assisted living and memory care community, activities and programs, and our wide range of amenities. 

Please consult your health care provider before starting any type of exercise.

The unique mission statement of MorningStar of Sparks, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Sparks NV.