5 Exercises Older Adults Shouldn’t Do

Staying physically active throughout all stages of life is vital for maintaining flexibility, mobility, and balance. Active seniors tend to maintain significantly higher levels of both mental and physical health when compared to elderly individuals who live more sedentary lifestyles. However, not all forms of physical exercise are good for people in their golden years. Here are five exercises seniors should avoid.

1. Sit-Ups

Building and maintaining strong abdominal muscles is essential for supporting and protecting the spine. However, the traditional sit-up, which involves forward bending, or flexion, can place a significant amount of stress on the lower spine. Standing crunches and side bends are a much better way to engage these muscles.

2. Full Lunges & Deep Squats

Lunges and squats are often performed incorrectly, which places an extraordinary amount of stress on the knees. Whenever the knees travel beyond a 90-degree angle, also known as hyperextension, it can cause joint discomfort and severe knee injuries. Partial lunges and partial squats are much safer, and they’re also a great way to enhance balance.

If you usually help your loved one exercise but need a break now and then, consider having a professional caregiver take over for you. Dallas respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.

3. Toe Touches

Stretching is an important part of every exercise plan, but certain stretches can do more harm than good. Bending over to touch the toes with straight legs can place strain on the back. Seniors should also avoid bouncing while stretching and should instead slowly relax into these positions while breathing deeply.

4. Running

Long-time joggers can certainly keep up with their running routines if the activity isn’t causing joint distress and other forms of discomfort. However, walking at a brisk pace is a great alternative to increase balance, coordination, and metabolic function without placing the joints under an extraordinary amount of stress.

Many seniors are able to safely enjoy numerous types of exercise, especially when they have the help of trained professional caregivers. Home care service professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.

5. Yoga

Given that yoga provides seniors with a low-impact way to stretch, align, and balance the body, it’s often preferred by people who want to stay fit without risking injury. However, advanced yoga poses can result in muscle strain, slipped discs, joint dysfunction, and other issues. Seniors should always start with entry-level classes and seek out programs designed specifically with older adults in mind.

Seniors who need help exercising safely can benefit from the help of trained professional caregivers. Dallas senior home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. If your loved one needs professional care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at [hca_phone] today.