Rhode Island

Did you know that as we age we begin to lose muscle mass in the form of skeletal muscle? It’s called Sarcopenia and it can effect the way that we’re able to function as we get older, because it reduces our overall strength, and in turn our ability to perform day-to-day tasks are compromised, from getting out of bed, to taking a walk, or carrying groceries from the car to the house. Rapid weight loss without exercise can also make the progression of Sarcopenia take place much more rapidly, so if Rhode Island seniors want to remain active and healthy into older adulthood, then they need to take some measures to ensure that they don’t continue to lose muscle.

Exercise is the answer to preventing Sarcopenia, but Rhode Island seniors need to engage in specific activities in order to increase strength. Resistance exercises are probably the most important way to built muscles, which includes lifting weights or using a resistance band to build strength, balance, and lower blood pressure.  Resistance training is even more important for post-menopausal women because it can increase bone density. Cardiovascular exercise is also great for the functioning of the cardiovascular system as well as your muscles and bones. It can include walking, jogging or taking a fitness class to improve overall health. Stretching is another important exercise for seniors to improve flexibility and generally reduce the degeneration of muscles with Sarcopenia. Basic stretches can be used, or seniors can work their way up to doing yoga a few days a week.

The changes of aging don’t need to be accepted; so if you or someone you love is beginning to struggle with balance and the strength of everyday tasks, then it’s time to start exercising to improve your heath.

Sources:

1. Suite101

Image: pro.corbis.com

Home Instead Senior Care in Rhode Island provides non medical home care services for seniors and the elderly who choose to live at home instead. Please call us for more information on our in-home care services at 401-667-2923.