Easy-to-Do Exercises for Seniors Who Want to Maintain Independence
In this video, Meredith will guide you through a series of exercises for seniors designed to support your activities of daily living (ADLs). Meredith uses a small stepping platform and lightweight dumbbells (dumbells are optional). This routine is designed for intermediate-level participants. Before attempting the full routine, Meredith recommends watching the video in its entirety to familiarize yourself with the exercises.
Meredith also reminds us that it’s important to listen to your body throughout the workout. If any moves cause pain or discomfort, you should refrain from doing them. Also, take breaks when needed. Always prioritize your safety and well-being above all else!
Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.
What Are Activities of Daily Living?
ADLs, or activities of daily living, are the fundamental tasks that we perform to take care of ourselves. When it comes to senior care, ADLs encompass all the basic actions that a person does independently. Let’s think about your morning routine: you wake up, get out of bed, head straight to the bathroom to use the toilet, and then brush your teeth. Next, you stroll into the kitchen, prepare yourself a delicious breakfast, sit down, and enjoy your meal. Each step of this routine represents an essential activity of daily living.
When someone refers to ADLs, these are the most common things they probably mean:
- Eating
- Bathing
- Brushing hair and teeth
- Toileting
- Getting dressed
- Walking
- Getting in and out of bed or a chair (transferring)
How Do Exercises for Seniors Help Support ADLs?
Exercise plays a very important role in helping seniors with everyday tasks. By staying physically active, older adults can experience numerous benefits that enhance their overall well-being and independence. Here are some ways exercises for seniors help support ADLs:
- Regular exercise helps improve balance, strength, and flexibility, reducing the likelihood of falls.
- Engaging in physical activity stimulates the brain, enhancing memory, concentration, and overall cognitive abilities. This can greatly support seniors in maintaining mental sharpness and carrying out daily tasks effectively.
- Exercise helps build and maintain muscle strength, making it easier to perform activities such as lifting objects, getting up from chairs, and climbing stairs.
- Aerobic exercises, such as walking, improve heart and lung function, increasing endurance and stamina. This, in turn, makes everyday tasks like cleaning, cooking, and running errands more manageable.
- Regular physical activity helps lubricate joints, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. This allows seniors to perform tasks like reaching overhead, bending down, and getting in and out of bed or chairs more comfortably.
More Exercises for Seniors
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) for Seniors
Chair Pilates Workout For Seniors And Beginners
New Knee Strengthening Workout for Seniors
The 6 Best Exercises For Activities of Daily Living (ADL)
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Originally published February 19, 2024
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