Seniors Stay Active!

Today's older generations are more active than ever. Senior citizens are enjoying games and activities that keep their minds sharp and their bodies fit. Approximately every eight seconds, another person earns the title senior citizen. It is estimated that roughly 4,000,000 Americans will turn 50 in 2008. Entering their senior years in record numbers, combined with the increase in life expectancy, has made more people aware of the importance of staying active both physically and mentally.

Regardless of age or ability, there are many activities and games, both indoors and out, that keep seniors stimulated and enrich their lives. From seniors living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, to those living with families alone, keeping active and involved is an important aspect of living a longer, healthier life. Many people assume that it is normal for elders to slow down and become less active, but being inactive can cause elders to lose ground in four areas that are important for staying healthy and independent: strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance. Exercise and physical activity can help elders maintain or even partly restore function in these four areas. Some exercise is possible no matter how old or frail an elder becomes, and it can be just as important as medication in the treatment of certain chronic diseases.

If you are over 50, maintaining or becoming active can improve, prevent or manage many age-related conditions. It only takes 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most days of the week to maintain good health.