Many loved ones aspire to stay in their homes as they age — known as “aging in place.” According to the World Health Organization, about 1 in 6 people will be 60 or older by 2030(World Health Organization, 2020). Your careful regard and provision are a substantial part of helping loved ones remain in their familiar environment. Caregivers, your role is crucial in understanding the physical, mental, and emotional state of our loved ones, with safety being the #1 priority. This understanding will help us incorporate exercises designed to improve physical activity in our aging loved ones.
Improve Physical Health with Exercise
Aging loved ones have limited abilities; however, note that different exercises can be adapted to their needs, eliminating the chances of pain or injury. Balance is a common issue for many elders, so exercises that help with balance are a great starting point. Gingerly performing movements that help strengthen lower extremities will help limit fall-related injuries. One exercise to consider is sitting and standing from a firm chair. The more you perform this exercise, the more endurance you will develop. Flexibility is the next consideration. Moving around the home, getting dressed, or even tying tennis shoes requires stretching. Bending over to pick up something from the floor or turning the head, especially if still driving, is vital.
Aging In Place Impacts Caregivers of Loved Ones
Aging in place means loved ones who care must dedicate time and energy to ensuring they exercise as tolerated. The overall goal is to safeguard that aging in place incorporates exercise in a fun way. Loved ones can age in place, but attention to balance and flexibility must occur.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, I encourage you to find activities that match your loved one’s activity level, regardless of age. Balance and flexibility exercises can significantly improve the goal of aging in place and help reduce harm in the home. It’s important to stretch after the body is warmed up, never to the point of pain. Remember to breathe normally and never hold your breath when exercising. These safety measures are designed to reassure caregivers that they are taking the proper steps to ensure the well-being of their loved ones. Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager, CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate and author of From the Lens of Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers.