You don’t need full mobility to enjoy the benefits of exercise. In fact, exercise can be important for maintaining and improving mobility. Even if injury, disability, illness, or weight limit your movement, there are many ways to stay active. Read on as we explore exercises for seniors with mobility issues.
6 Exercises For Seniors With Mobility Issues
Exercise in Water
For many people with mobility challenges, exercising in water is a gentler way to stay active. It puts less strain on the joints and provides support. Water aerobics and aqua jogging are great cardio options. You can check out pools or health clubs that offer pool therapy programs. It often accommodates those using wheelchairs or mobility devices. With flotation aids, you may also be able to swim.
Use Resistance Bands
Resistance bands can also be great for strength training. Attach a resistance band to a chair, doorknob, or furniture for exercises like pull-downs, shoulder rotations, and leg or arm extensions. You can do upper body moves like shoulder presses, bicep curls, and extensions even when seated.
Chair Exercises
Many people with mobility challenges use a wheelchair or mobility device but can still stay active. Chair exercises are a great way to get cardio and flexibility workouts. Chair aerobics is a popular option involving seated movements you can follow through online videos. You could also join group classes for a more fun and social experience.
Flexibility Exercises
Stretching exercises and yoga can improve your range of motion, prevent injuries, and ease pain and stiffness. Even with limited mobility, stretching and flexibility exercises can help prevent or slow muscle loss. You can find a range of stretching exercises for seniors.
Isometric Exercises
Suppose you have joint issues from arthritis or an injury. In that case, it is recommended that you do isometric exercise to maintain muscle strength and prevent further muscle loss. These exercises involve pushing against an immovable object or another part of your body without moving the joint.
Chair Yoga and Tai Chi
Many yoga poses can be adjusted to fit your mobility level, age, weight, injuries or medical conditions. Chair yoga is great for those with disabilities and injuries. Likewise, seated tai chi exercises can be done in a chair or wheelchair. Both can improve flexibility, strength, and relaxation.
While these exercises are good for those with mobility issues, they might not be suitable for all. Talk to your doctor about new exercises you want to try or consider working with a therapist or trainer.
Care That Goes Beyond
Enrich Senior Living fosters an environment of purpose and independence for seniors. We strive to provide every resident with the best possible quality of life. Click here to learn about our customized services, or click here to contact our team.
Schedule a visit with the Enrich team by clicking here.
Thanks for visiting!
