Reduction in Ability to Function

Reduction in Ability to Function

As people are getting older, they experience some functional limitations which can affect their independence and a loss of control over their lives. Functional limitations could be caused by: decreased vision or hearing, decreased mobility or illness, falls or injuries. Regular exercises will help to increase independence, improve mental health and quality of life, provide more energy, reduce stress, improve self esteem, and most importantly control weight and fight disease. Very simple physical activity such as walking, lifting weights and stretching can have a large impact on the quality of life. When choosing exercises, consider any physical limitations you have. And before you start any exercise program, check with your doctor. It is also important to talk to friends and family about participating in community activities together.

Recommend four types of exercises for older adult:

Strength exercises build older adult muscles and increase your metabolism, which helps to keep your weight and blood sugar in check.
Balance exercises build leg muscles, and this helps to prevent falls and stay independent.
Stretching exercises can give you more freedom of movement, which will allow you to be more active during your senior years.
Endurance exercises are any activity—walking, jogging, swimming, biking, even raking leaves—that increase your heart rate and breathing for an extended period of time. Build up your endurance gradually, starting with as little as 5 minutes of endurance activities at a time.

Please watch this video: VOA's Carol Pearson reports on efforts by one university to help older adults reap the benefits of exercise. Studies show that people are living longer and the population in much of the world is growing older. Other research shows physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. It also delays the onset of Alzheimer's.