By Main Line Health

Now that we’re spending more time inside, it’s easy to get accustomed to spending most of your time sitting. And without our usual gyms and exercise classes to keep us moving, it can be easy for anyone to fall into a sedentary lifestyle. But the risk is especially great for seniors.

“While some people may be able to go outside and go for a run or a walk, adults over 65 — particularly those who are immuno-compromised — don’t have the opportunity to go outside or use public parks and trails, even during off-hours,” said Deb Bosley of Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital, part of Main Line Health.

This, coupled with the fact that some seniors rely on the support of trainers or physical therapists to guide them through a routine safely, can make exercise difficult to achieve when you’re stuck at home.

But it doesn’t have to be. Below, Bosley offers some advice about easy exercises for seniors who want to stay active.

Walk indoors

You might not be able to get outside for a walk, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go for a walk inside. There are several walking-in-place programs available online, so pull one up on your tablet or computer and follow along. Your cable provider may even offer a library of walking workouts on your TV.

Of course, you don’t need a program to help you walk. If you live in an apartment complex or residential facility, take several laps through nearby hallways. At home, you might consider walking in place to the beat of music, or even doing a few laps inside. You can climb the stairs, too — just make sure to hold on to the handrail for balance. Keep track of your minutes and try to increase slowly over time — even if you are only starting at five to ten minutes. That’s a great start!

Strength training to improve balance and bone health

Strength training can reduce the risk of complications from a variety of chronic health issues like arthritis, diabetes and osteoporosis, all common issues associated with aging. It can also help prevent age-related muscle loss, keep your bones strong, improve balance and prevent falls — a significant health risk for adults 65 and over.

Some common strength training exercises you can start with include:

• Bicep curls: Start with a light weight (a water bottle or a can of soup) in each hand. Your elbows should be at your sides, with your forearms extended in front of your body. Keep your knees slightly bent and belly pulled in toward your spine. Slowly bring the weight up towards your shoulders by bending your elbow, then lower back to your starting position.
• Shoulder press: Stand with your feet hip-width distance apart. With a light weight in each hand, bring your arms at a 90-degree angle on the sides of your head. (You should look like you’re making a goal post gesture.) Alternate lifting your arms up over your head to straighten them, then slowly lower back to the starting position.
• Mini-squats: Hold onto a sturdy object, like a heavier chair, table or counter, for balance. Flex your knees and hips as though you are preparing to sit down. When your body reaches a 45-degree angle or you have moved as far as you are comfortable, push through your heels and slowly return to standing straight.
• Standing heel raises: Steadying yourself by holding on to an object for balance, raise up on to your toes and slowly lower yourself back down in a controlled manner.
• Sitting to standing: Starting seated in a chair that is braced against the wall, cross your arms in an ‘X’ over your chest. Stand up with your arms in this position. If you are unable to get up without using your hands, try elevating the seat with a pillow, or using one or two hands to assist.

“An important thing to remember if you’re going to try strength training is that it is not about how heavy you can lift or how quickly you can move,” Bosley said. “It’s about moving your body slowly and safely so as not to fatigue your body or hurt yourself. Think about the functional movements you need to do each day — reaching into a cabinet, getting out of the dining room chair or off the commode, putting away dishes. All these exercises are designed to facilitate better functional control and help you maintain independence.”

If you don’t have any hand weights, that’s okay! You can use your own body weight if you’re just beginning, or use cans or bottles from your pantry — whatever works for you. Using resistance bands are another way to add to your strengthening routine, but be aware that some types provide too much resistance.

Yoga

Yoga is a great exercise to do at home, as there are many different ways that you can adapt your routine to meet your physical needs. Chair yoga, for example, may be appropriate for adults over 65 who can’t get down on the floor or may not be able to stand for an extended period of time.

Just like walking exercises, there are many yoga routines available online that you can use to guide you. Look for beginner or chair yoga routines to help you get started. Often, the only equipment these routines require is a yoga mat, but if you don’t have one, that’s okay. Wear socks for traction and try yoga exercises in a carpeted area to prevent slips and falls. If you have osteoporosis, be sure you avoid twisting and excessive flexing of your spine. In cases like these, getting professional instruction first is important.

Before any routine, talk to your healthcare provider

If you’re ready to get started with these routines, that’s great! But remember to consult with your provider first, especially if you have a history of falls or osteoporosis. Exercise is important, but your personal health and safety should always come first.

Main Line Health serves patients at hospitals and health centers throughout the western suburbs of Philadelphia. To schedule an appointment with a specialist at Main Line Health, call 1-866-CALL-MLH (225-5654) or use our secure online appointment request form.

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