Being active is an important part of healthy living. However, as people get older and deal with diminishing strength, increasing health issues, and other challenges, staying active can be far more difficult.
In some cases, family may discourage an aging parent or grandparent from pursuing certain activities they deem unnecessary or potentially dangerous. There may even be times when an adult child who is looking after this elderly parent forbids them from taking part in these activities, even going so far as refusing to drive them, if they no longer drive themselves.
Safety is often the primary concern.
These adult children may see their parents struggling, having difficulty just getting out of a chair, getting up from the table, or walking down the hall. They may think to themselves, ‘Why are they even considering putting themselves at risk like this?’
What they fail to understand is that being active not only helps emotionally, it may also be beneficial physically. When a person sits around and is idle most of the day, their muscles are becoming weaker. The natural process of aging is increasing or accelerating this muscle loss, but if aging seniors are staying active, moving around, and engaging in different activities, it can help slow the progression of muscle loss.
How can seniors be safer while participating in these activities?
They need to take certain reasonable precautions, of course, and not try to do something far beyond their physical capabilities to do. Also, they should consider physical assistance to do certain activities, if they have difficulty getting around on their own.
A home care aide is one of the best options to consider for seniors, especially as it pertains to staying active and being safe. An experienced home care aide can assist the senior in doing a number of activities, including visiting with friends, going for a walk around the block or at a local park, and even going shopping for themselves.
On top of that, an experienced aide can assist with meal preparation, light housekeeping, and even encouragement for the senior who’s getting frustrated with their diminishing strength and limited physical capacities.
Avoid the temptation to encourage a sedentary life.
Some people like being home not doing a lot physically, but for those who enjoy the challenge of physical activity, spending time with friends, and still living independently, it should be encouraged where possible. As far safety is concerned, there are many ways to improve this for seniors, including relying on home care support.