If your loved one is disabled, or suffers from a medical condition it doesn’t mean that exercise shouldn’t be a factor.  It is all the more reason to stay active and work out. Physical activity has many benefits for all ages.  For seniors, walking is a great benefit as it strengthens the heart and cardiovascular system and reduces the risk of heart disease.  

When seniors combine different types of exercise such as walking, lifting and stretching they inherit many benefits.

• Become more alert
• Improve skin tone
• Sleep better
• Decrease depression
• Help with the disability
• Improve medical condition
• Strengthens muscles

Think Safety and Be Prepared.  

• Warm up with gentle stretching exercises.
• Start slow and build gradually.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, water only.
• Be aware of any signs of difficulty. Stop immediately if there’s shortness of breath or pain.
• Make sure breathing exercises are performed. Inhale and Exhale.
• Don’t get up too quick, avoid dizziness or loss of balance.

Now that you’re loved one is ready to get started involve them in choosing the types of exercise they should do.  There are many different varieties; standing exercises, sitting exercises and lying exercises.  Depending on your loved ones condition should help on deciding which type of exercise works best.