Today the U.S. Government released guidelines for physical activities that offer health benefits to Americans, including seniors. This is a first from the feds.
And, the bar has been raised. The guidelines suggest adults should exercise at moderate-intensity for 2 1/2 hours each week along with 1 1/4 hours of vigorous-intensity exercise to get the most health benefits. Moderate-intensity includes brisk walking and vigorous-intensity means stepping it up a notch to running or swimming laps. Adults includes senior adults, which the guidelines refer to as “Older Americans”.
This means both Caregivers and their senior clients can go for a walk each day to meet the guidelines, as older adults also will experience health benefits from exercising.
The guidelines suggest adults should include muscle-strengthening (resistance) activities at moderate- or high-intensity levels, which includes free weights, resistance bands, or exercises which use body weight such as sit-ups and push-ups.
Older Americans should follow the guidelines if they are able. If not, they should be as active as their physical condition allows. Exercises to improve balance are also suggested.
Physical exercise can also improve the emotional and mental outlook for seniors. Caregivers can find these new guidelines on the government website.
