Today’s seniors recognize the importance of active lifestyles and physical fitness. Staying active dramatically boosts quality of life. To that end, the 60+ crowd is increasingly turning to the practice of yoga as a way to maximize their strength, flexibility, and wellbeing. A common myth is that yoga is just for young, athletic people. This is patently untrue. In fact, more senior health specialists are recommending that older adults utilize yoga as a non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical method for managing pain, staying active, and maximizing peace of mind.
Increases Strength
When people don’t regularly participate in physical activity, their muscles tend to become weak. However, many yoga poses require participants to bear their entire body weight on one leg at a time. During each pose, seniors must remain in the same position for a designated amount of time while concentrating on breathing techniques. This way, muscles become stronger. Because yoga is a low-impact activity, major muscle groups gain strength without being exposed to joint injury.
When seniors practice yoga, the results are transformative. Yoga provides an antidote to the perils of a sedentary lifestyle. It can ward off arthritis, osteoporosis, and loss of flexibility in the joints, and studies show the exercise can minimize chronic pain, including pain experienced in the lower back. In some cases, yoga may even be recommended as part of a senior’s post-hospital care plan to slowly rebuild strength and flexibility. Yoga also lowers blood pressure, eases respiratory difficulties, and stimulates blood circulation.
Older adults who need help with practicing yoga and other types of exercise should consider professional in-home care. Home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Relieves Stress
Stress is a major obstacle to senior wellness. Yoga positions relieve the body of its cumulative stress burden. As a result, yoga-loving seniors frequently feel happier, have more energy during the day, and sleep better at night.
Health and happiness go hand in hand, and yoga is designed to help with both at the same time. Yoga is typically performed in a calm and relaxed atmosphere, and it also requires participants to focus on the moment. The concentration needed to perform breathing techniques can redirect the mind from stressful thoughts. By focusing on the present, older adults don’t think about past or future events.
Socializing on a regular basis is another way seniors can relieve stress, stave off boredom, and enjoy a high quality of life. For families living in Lincoln, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
Bolsters Immunity
As the body ages, the immune system may not function as efficiently as it once did. However, yoga can reverse the issue. Researchers in Norway found that when individuals practiced yoga, their immunity function was enhanced. The immunity boost was more significant than when participants engaged in a more strenuous activity.
In all, yoga is believed to slow the aging process. That’s one major reason people have been practicing this extraordinary physical art for more than 4,000 years. Yoga is considered safe for aging adults, but it isn’t right for everyone. Make sure to consult with a trusted doctor or physical therapist who’s familiar with your loved one’s medical history and status. These experts will be able to make an informed recommendation.
Older adults with serious health issues may find it difficult to practice yoga and manage everyday tasks. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional senior home care. Lincoln families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. If you need professional care for your loved one, Home Care Assistance is just a phone call away. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (916) 226-3737.