Exercising and aging – Why it is important to keep on exercising as we age

Jan 04, 2023 | News

At OxleyCare we encourage independent living. It not only prevents disability and disease but acts as the greatest defence against a person’s loss of autonomy. One of the best ways to combat this is by increasing mobility.

Average walking speeds for older people

Unbelievably, the speed at which you walk is one of the biggest indicators of overall health. It also significantly decreases as you age. According to data, you are on average 1.2 minutes slower for every kilometer walked at age 60 than at age 20.

That said, it is recommended that all adults aged 65 and over need at least 150 minutes of walking a week. However, exercising daily can be difficult to maintain with age.
So why walk?

Free and easy

For starters, it is free – no equipment is needed! You can also walk everywhere and anywhere. As such it provides a much-needed change of scenery. If the scenery does not change, nature transforms the world around you day to day.

It really is as simple as taking a few extra steps around the garden or choosing to walk to an errand. Over the days, weeks, and months, small steps add up to a great deal of distance covered, and better health as a result.

Companionship

At OxleyCare we understand the importance of the relationship between our carers and clients; that relationship drives much of what we do. Companion walking is a wonderful way to encourage older people to get outside.

It provides a safety net – preventing the chances of falling or sustaining another form of injury. With support, a walk outside in the open can be enjoyed with reduced risk. We also know that social connections are another factor in life expectancy and general well-being. Walking with a companion can help to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness and give you crucial regular social interaction.

Injury and disease prevention

Walking at a consistent pace to elevate the heart rate and breathing has a myriad of health benefits. It can prevent a decline in both physical and mental function.
You can better manage chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, stroke, and type 2 diabetes just by walking daily – any form of aerobic exercise can improve your heart health and endurance. It also lowers blood glucose and insulin resistance in equal measure.
Low-impact exercise has also been scientifically proven to even reduce cell decline. That includes brain health! Benefits include improved memory and slowing mental decline, amongst others.

Walking safely

Walking may be a great low-impact exercise but should only be taken with a doctor’s approval if you are older. Our team of carers at OxleyCare work with doctors and other care providers to help give you the best care possible.

If you or your loved one feel you would benefit from professional live-in care, contact our team today at OxleyCare.