Active Aging Week

 

Staying active is a game-changer for your health and well-being! When you keep moving, you’ll feel stronger and more energized, empowering you to tackle the challenges that come with age. You can effectively prevent and manage health issues, all while boosting your brain and maintaining a healthy weight.

But that’s not all—being active is a powerful ally in managing stress and enhancing your mental health. You'll also notice improvements in the quality of your sleep, leading to a greater sense of overall well-being. It helps reduce the risk of falls by enhancing your balance, allowing you to navigate your environment with confidence.

Most importantly, staying active means you can continue enjoying your favourite leisure activities! Embrace the excitement of movement and unlock a vibrant, fulfilling life!

It’s essential to distinguish between activities that can be enjoyed independently and those that benefit from the guidance of a healthcare professional. Both types of activities work hand in hand, amplifying the positive effects of an active lifestyle. The more we embrace these opportunities, the greater the rewards for our overall health!

Here are some exciting options to consider:

Board Games/Card Games: Ignite your mental agility and enjoy social interaction in a fun, engaging way!

Playing Sports: Boost your physical and cognitive health while having a blast! Sports like tossing a bean bag, dancing, balloon badminton, or curling.

Workshops and Courses: Learn new skills that support both mental and physical vitality, tailored to your interests. Craft making, painting, and cooking are just some of many activities that might peak your interest!

Aerobic activity: Continuous movement that makes you feel warm and breathe deeply, like pushing a lawn mower, joining a dance class, or Tai chi.

Strengthening activity: Climbing stairs, digging in the garden, walking or yoga, keeps muscles and bones strong and prevents bone loss. It will also improve your balance and posture.

Tips to help you get active

  • Find an activity you like such as swimming or cycling.

  • Minutes count — increase your activity level 10 minutes at a time. Every little bit helps.

  • Active time can be social time — look for group activities or classes in your community, or get your family or friends to be active with you.

  • Walk wherever and whenever you can.

  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator, when possible.

  • Carry your groceries home.

  • Start slowly

  • Listen to your body

  • Every step counts

Let’s explore these exhilarating options for staying active and thriving as we age!

Here are some links to pages that will further explain the benefits of staying active while aging:

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/physical-activity-tips-older-adults-65-years-older.html

https://rehametrics.com/en/active-aging/

https://www.activeagingcanada.ca/assets/pdf/participants/get-active/active-agers-in-canada/Physical-Activity-for-Older-Adults-2021.pdf

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Minister’s Seniors Award