HEALTHY ROUTINE FOR ELDERLY PEOPLE DURING PANDEMIC

January 02, 2021

Health

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The pandemic has turned life upside down for everyone. It made people throughout the world prevent socializing, working, and performing everyday activities. Older adults are more likely to limit their activities to lessen their chances of contracting coronavirus. Even though older adults need to protect their health during pandemics, it’s also important that they will remain physically and mentally active. However, it can be challenging to find suitable social distancing activities for elders.

Here are five ways to stay active while following social distancing guidelines:

1. Walking

Several communities with stay-at-home orders have made exceptions allowing outdoor exercise. If possible, you can have a walk around the neighborhood that provides sufficient exercise. It is to reduce restlessness and deliver mood- and immune-boosting benefits. Keep in mind to avoid crowds when outside your house. Walking around the house can also increase daily step counts.

2. Exercise

Yoga and stretching can help elders stay fit at home and can improve flexibility, balance, and overall mobility. Various instructional videos can be found online and some are even designed specifically for older adults.

3. Dancing

Dancing is a fun and low-impact way to exercise. It also boosts endurance during long days of staying at home. Dancing is also known for its cardiovascular benefits. As an added benefit, listening to some favorite music may even encourage your loved one to exercise their mind.

4. Gardening

For older adults who enjoy being outdoors, gardening can enhance outdoor spaces while providing a healthy dose of fresh air. Although some older adults may not be mobile enough to dig in the dirt, there are other alternatives to reap the benefits of gardening. Potting small plants to be maintained indoors can keep your loved one moving and active.

5. Arts and crafts

Older adults who have limited capability to stay active at home can participate in arts and crafts. Whether coloring, painting, knitting or working with clay, these can help older adults maintain their cognitive and dexterity skills.

Safety Tips for Seniors

Older adults need to check with their doctor to make sure the activities they plan are safe and appropriate before engaging in any type of exercise. You can consult the doctor if they must avoid any specific movements or activities.

Here are a few other safety tips to remember:

• Stay hydrated: Older adults can become dehydrated quickly. They need to drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise.
• Don’t overdo it: If an older adult is new to exercise, remind them to start with beginner-level exercises and take it slow and steady.
• Lessen the risk of falls: Exercise on flat surfaces that are free of tripping hazards while wearing proper footwear.
• Keep someone informed: Older adults should let someone know when they are exercising. It is not just for accountability, but to protect them in case of a fall or another injury. Having qualified home care professionals to monitor and check on your elderly loved ones can ensure they stay safe.

In addition to finding creative ways for the elderly to communicate during social distancing, it’s just as important they stay active to maintain their well-being. With a little motivation, seniors can stay safe and healthy during the pandemic while getting the activities they need.