Why Walking is the Perfect Exercise for Seniors

Medical researchers agree that walking may be the best form of physical exercise for older adults. A senior-friendly physical exercise, walking can be performed at low to moderate intensity, has a low risk of injury, is easy on the joints, and it’s easy to get started. There are multiple health benefits that come with walking, and here we list just a few of them.

Walking Can be as Effective as Running

A recent study conducted by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has disproven the common misconception that you can’t achieve the same health benefits from low intensity activities as you do from high-intensity exercise. The study found that when study participants used up the same number of calories, no matter what type of exercise they did, they reaped equal cardiovascular benefits.

Walking Helps Seniors Manage Their Weight

Walking not only helps manage weight but has been linked to further health benefits. Harvard researchers who study the genetics of obesity have found that one hour of walking each day reduces the effects of 32 obesity-promoting genes by 50%. Walking has also been proven to reduce cravings for sugary foods, even during stressful situations.

Walking Boosts the Immune System

Multiple studies have found that those who walk regularly get sick less frequently and for shorter durations than people who don’t participate in regular exercise. One study indicates that individuals who walk 20 minutes a day, at least five days a week, use 45% fewer sick days compared to people who don’t exercise.

The Risk of Disability is Reduced by Regular Walking

Walking regularly gets seniors out of the home – while helping them stay in their homes. A University of Georgia study found that walking on a regular basis reduces the risk of developing a physical disability by 41%. This helps older people maintain their independence and age in place, rather than having to move into a managed care facility.

At Home Elder Care in Elmhurst

When you choose to stay in your own home, Home & Hearth at home elder care in Elmhurst provides the assistance you need to remain independent. Our clients are seniors who enjoy living in the comfort and familiarity of their homes, enjoy regular exercise like daily walks, and want to continue living safely and independently. For more information about our services, call Home & Hearth Caregivers.

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