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The proven benefits of keeping your body moving as you age!

As we grow older, many people naturally slow down and become more sedentary. It’s a common misconception that the elderly need to rest more. Illnesses and ongoing health problems often become great excuses to stop being as physically active in old age. But in fact, staying physically active is the best way to maintain health, independence, and quality of life in later years.

“Physical activity – particularly when it is moderate-intensity and raises your heart rate – is known to reduce the risk of a number of diseases, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer.”

University of Cambridge

Recent research from the Alzheimer’s Association has shown just how powerful staying active can be—not just for our bodies, but for our brains too. The study highlights how simple lifestyle changes like regular exercise can boost cognitive health as we age. So, keeping moving isn’t just about staying fit; it’s a great way to keep your mind sharp and enjoy life to the fullest. Want to learn more about how physical activity helps brain health, too? Check out our blog on Caring for the Mind: How to Stay Mentally Sharp.

When we talk about exercising in old age, we’re not talking about pensioners spending hours sweating it out in the gym; we’re simply talking about adding some extra movement to your day in little ways.

At Angel Carers, we understand how important it is for older adults to keep moving – even if it’s just in small, manageable ways. Here’s what you need to know.

Why Exercise Matters for Seniors

Due to the damaging effects that being inactive can bring to both physical and emotional wellbeing, the NHS has said that “Older adults should do some type of physical activity every day” as it can “help to improve your health and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.”

Regular physical activity offers many benefits, including:

• Boost Metabolism and Help Maintain a Healthy Weight: Our metabolism slows with age, making it easier to gain weight. Exercise increases calorie burn, builds muscle, and helps control weight.
• Improve Heart Health and Reduce Chronic Illness: Regular physical activity lowers blood pressure, strengthens the immune system, improves bone density, and reduces risks of Alzheimer’s, diabetes, osteoporosis, cancer, and heart disease.
• Enhance Balance and Prevent Falls: Strength and flexibility exercises improve posture and coordination, decreasing fall risk—a leading cause of injury in seniors.
• Improve Sleep Quality: Exercise helps you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper rest, which is essential for overall health.
• Boost Mood and Cognitive Function: Physical activity releases endorphins that combat depression and anxiety while helping preserve memory and brain health.
• Increase Confidence and Independence: Staying active helps you maintain the ability to perform daily tasks and engage socially.
• Enhanced Social Connections: Group classes or activities create opportunities to meet new people and stay socially engaged.

Ready to Get Moving?

Contact us today to learn how we can support safe, healthy, and active living at any age.

📞 Call Angel Carers on 01308 459204

📧 Or email contact@angelcarers.com

For more valuable insights, check out this University of Cambridge study on how staying active improves quality of life for older adults and explore the NHS physical activity guidelines for older adults to help you maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.