Many elderly people spend more hours daily just lying or sitting down, thereby making them the sedentary age group. It is due to this inactivity that they tend to be prone to heart diseases, obesity or even early deaths as compared to the general population (Sullivan & Pomidor, 2015). Moreover, it has also been noted that as one grows older, their bodily functions decline. Physical activities can, therefore, help in slowing down this rate of deterioration. Furthermore, many seniors still want to keep in touch with their friends, neighbors and the community in general. Based on this and other factors, most of them are now becoming conscious about their health, thus engaging in exercises and physical activities aimed at ensuring that they remain energetic, independent and healthy as they get older (Sullivan & Pomidor, 2015).
Physical activities are important as they ensure that the body remains fit as one ages. They also keep lifestyle-associated illnesses at bay. These include diseases such as the type II diabetes and osteoporosis. Moreover, they have positive impact on all body systems, including heart and lung performance, body composition and neuronal functioning, as well as muscle- skeletal coordination. Therefore, with physical activities such as brisk walking, swimming, and dancing, heart muscles get strengthened, thereby allowing the organ to pump more blood to the rest of the body (Sullivan & Pomidor, 2015). As a result, the risks of low blood pressure is minimized. Some of the sport programs that the elderly can take part in are;
Walking as a Sport
Since most elderly people have reduced energy, this activity will allow them to exercise safely and also be able to manage any pain that may arise on the way. Moreover, the program will also allow participants to modify their walking plan to suit their needs. Walking helps in minimizing the risk of one falling by increasing the time spent on training the feet. In addition, when one exercises regularly, they hardly get tired as fast as those who do not engage in any exercise. The program will also include activities such as basic stretches, warming up, and additional stretches. The individuals can pair themselves in twos and compete on a walking race. Since the elderly want things that make them happy, the fun in the process will get them engaged.
Healthy Moves as a Physical and Sporting Activity
This routine is mostly for the frail or weak. It is a safe and simple physical activity that one can engage in from the comfort of their homes. It will involve activities such as arm curls, ankle point and flexing when seated, combined with step-in-place and chair stand. The individuals can compete among themselves on who does the moves best as required, and the winner is awarded. However, for the program to be implemented it will require care managers to teach, assist and engage the participants.
Aerobics
The activity will involve aerobic walking, strength training, dancing classes and health education to ensure sustainable behavior among the elderly with lower risks. The activity aims at improving strength and aerobic capacity by reducing pain and stiffness when one participates in it. Elders like interacting with others and sharing, hence this program will involve activities such as stretching, warm-up/balance exercises, resistance and strength activities and discussions. To make it a sport, individuals will showcase their best moves until the top three are identified. For the program to be implemented, however, it will require chairs some exercises, floor mats for floor exercises, resistance equipment, instructor and participant manuals as well as music player.
Self-Monitoring
The activity can also be turned into a daily physical routine that one may engage in, since most elderly people are now becoming aware of their condition and will do anything to better their health. With self-monitoring, the elderly will be encouraged to take the health responsibility into their hands. With the help of a professional such as a nurse or social worker, the participant will be provided with a plan to guide him/her to attaining his or her goal. The program will contain three steps; screen, plan, and action. Points will be awarded for those who achieve their training goals, and those with the most points rewarded after a given period. For the program to also be implemented, experts will be required such as social worker and registered nurses.
References
Sullivan, G.M & Pomidor, A.K. (2015). Exercise for aging adults. New York City: Springer.
