Basic Walking Guidelines for Aging Adults

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Simple Walking Guidelines for Aging Adults in Amarillo, TX

Walking is one of the best forms of exercise for seniors because it provides a low-impact cardiovascular workout that also strengthens the joints and bones. Seniors can also choose how long they want to walk, which gives them more control over their exercise routines. These walking tips for seniors can help your aging loved one enjoy his or her daily workout.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Supportive, comfortable shoes can help seniors avoid trauma to their feet. If your loved one chooses to buy a new pair of shoes, make sure he or she breaks them in by wearing them around the house for a few days. Your loved one should also get a good pair of socks to cushion his or her feet and prevent blisters.

Scout Out New Walking Trails 

Choosing new walking paths can keep things interesting for seniors, but your loved one also needs to think about safety. If possible, have someone check out the trail first to identify potential hazards, such as sudden bumps or curbs. Being aware of these areas allows seniors to adjust their routes so they don’t get hurt.

If you usually help your loved one walk for exercise but need a break now and then, hiring a professional caregiver to take over on occasion is a great option. Amarillo 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.

Start Slowly

Once your loved one starts walking, he or she may love it so much that he or she doesn’t want to stop. However, doing too much too soon can lead to muscle soreness and a higher risk of injuries. Sedentary seniors should start off with short walks on flat surfaces. Then they can increase their walking time as they build up strength and stamina.

Remember to Warm Up & Cool Down

Light warmup and cool-down sessions can also prevent muscle pain and sore joints. Help your loved one do a few light stretches before and after a walk. Your loved one can lean on you or a caregiver for support while doing simple leg lifts and bends. Encourage your loved one to start slowly for the first five minutes of the walk and gradually decrease his or her speed at the end as well.

If your loved one needs help exercising safely, hiring a professional caregiver can be an ideal solution. Amarillo home care 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.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration keeps the body functioning properly. A senior who gets dehydrated on a walk may get dizzy and be unable to make it back home without feeling ill. Encourage your loved one to carry water on walks. A small water bottle can also double as a light hand weight.

Use the Buddy System

Walking is always more fun when someone else comes along, and it also allows seniors to check their breathing rates. Ideally, seniors should be able to hold a simple conversation as they walk. If they cannot, they may need to reduce their speed or choose less difficult paths. The buddy system also ensures seniors have help if they do get hurt or find it challenging to walk back home.

Assistance with exercising safely is just one of the benefits seniors receive when families enlist the help of trained professional caregivers. At-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. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Home Care Assistance. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (806) 803-9991.

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