Our bodies become less resilient and more prone to injury, stiffness, and soreness as we age. Many seniors experience reduced circulation as they age as they tend to become more sedentary and less active.
However, movement and activity are essential to longevity and enjoying your life in your senior years. Whether you led an active lifestyle your entire life or you want to begin doing so as a retiree, there is no time like the present to take a conscious role in how you treat your body.
At Summer’s Landing, with more than 30 years of experience in senior living communities, we understand the importance of maintaining good health and well-being into the senior years. We have designed programs and services, including fitness classes, with the health of our residents in mind. Learn more about how you can enjoy your retirement years by calling 850.265.9829.
The Importance of Senior Stretching
The less often joints are used, the less flexible and mobile older adults will be. No matter your activity level, stretching exercises for senior citizens are an important part of your daily routine. Including stretching exercises has many benefits to the aging body, including:
- Reducing lower back pain
- Decreasing arthritis pain and swelling
- Improved balance and stability reduces the risk of falling
- Increased blood flow and energy levels
- Improved flexibility and posture
Ideally, to continue participating in the things you love as you retire, you must have the physical strength and ability to do so. The importance of stretching cannot be overstated or underestimated to accomplish this goal.
Best Senior Stretching Exercises
Whether you are active and mobile or more limited in your movements, a stretching regimen will be beneficial for your lifestyle. Here are just some of the stretching exercises recommended to keep you healthy and active:
Shoulder stretch
Stand tall or sit upright in a chair. Stretch one arm across your body and gently pull your outstretched arm closer to your body using the opposite hand. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds as you feel the stretch in the back of your arm, shoulder, and back. Release and repeat on the opposite arm.
Hamstring stretch
Place your heel on a low bench or stair, keeping your leg outstretched, and your toes pointed upward. Gently hinge your upper body forward without hunching or rounding your back. Only lean as far as you feel the stretch behind your leg. Hold for 30 seconds, release, and repeat on the opposite leg.
Supine back stretch
Lay on your back on the carpet or a yoga mat. Stretch out your legs on the floor. Gently pull one knee into your chest only as far as is comfortable and hold for 20 to 30 seconds. You will feel a gentle stretch in your back. Release your leg and repeat on the other side. To get off the floor from this position, gently roll to your side and push up slowly. Ensure you are completely steady on your feet before walking or moving.
Overhead side stretch
Stand tall and raise your arms over your head. Clasping your fingers together, gently lean to one side and hold for 30 seconds. As you feel the stretch up your side, breathe in slowly and gently. Release and lean to the other side.
These senior stretching activities are gentle enough that you can do them every day or use them however they best help you. Maybe you need to restore sore muscles or relieve tension. They are versatile enough to be done without any equipment, even if your space is limited.
Discover Fitness Activities at Summer’s Landing
No matter how you choose to incorporate these stretches into your lifestyle, be sure to do them regularly to receive the most benefit.
The experienced trainers at Summer’s Landing have designed fitness classes for all levels with the aging body in mind. Whether your goal is to lose or maintain weight, improve balance and stability, or incorporate physical fitness for cognitive function, we have an activity or program for you.
Learn more about stretching exercises and fitness programs for seniors by calling 850.265.9829 and speaking to one of our experienced staff members.
