POWER OF ACTIVE AGINGWhile aging comes with its share of challenges, seniors who remain active are apt to benefit in a number of

ways. Active aging can help seniors improve their physical wellbeing, but it also helps to improve mental

acuity and stability. Seniors who engage in an active, healthy lifestyle may find that they are more socially

involved, as well. This white paper serves to illustrate the ways in which seniors may benefit from living an

active lifestyle. Additionally, this white paper discusses the ways that senior living communities help to pro-

mote this style of aging, so seniors of all needs and health levels may lead happier lives.

*Always consult with your doctor or health professional before making any changes to your lifestyle, like starting a new diet or exercise program.

What Is Active Aging?An active lifestyle does not simply mean getting regular exercise. Being active means

being involved with social and community activities. It may also involve being engaged

with family activities. To remain active in their senior years, people might participate in

a wide range of activities, from being involved in social gatherings to working part time.

People who are disabled can still remain active, as well. Activity may be tailored to meet

the needs and abilities of the individual.

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The Importance of Active AgingAccording to information found on the United States Environmental Protection Agency website

(in reference to data made available by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), a mere 20

percent of individuals over the age of 65 engage in activity on a regular basis. This may contrib-

ute to the percentage of seniors who live with chronic health conditions. Daily physical activity is

essential to assisting in the prevention and control of chronic health issues, and it is necessary for

seniors to maintain overall fitness.

Both structured and unstructured physical activities can serve seniors well. Programs that pro-

mote physical activity among seniors are vital to such populations. Senior communities that pro-

vide residents with viable physical activity options may help to promote the health and well-being

of the seniors they serve.

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Active Aging for Physical Health Seniors who do not get enough exercise are likely putting their physical health at risk. A lifestyle that

does not include activity can often lead to preventable doctor and hospital visits. While some seniors

may feel intimidated by the thought of engaging in daily physical activity, the risks involved with not

exercising could be significant. People who do not exercise may experience more difficulty walking

and maintaining their balance. They may also have high blood pressure as a result of inactivity. All of

these factors can lead to an increased need for medical attention, as well as a higher chance of re-

quiring medication.

The National Institutes of Health state that scientists have found exercise to be a factor in the preven-

tion of a number of diseases. Physical activity can also be integrated with the treatment of a variety

of health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. Seniors who suffer from arthritis may also

benefit from getting regular exercise. Many health experts recommend that seniors get as much exer-

cise as they can.

Active Aging for Mental WellbeingExercise can also help to prevent rapid cognitive decline, and those who are at risk of developing

Alzheimer’s disease might stay active to help prevent the disease from manifesting. Research indi-

cates that seniors who participate in yoga or aerobic exercise may improve their cognitive function

(including initiating commands and general recognition). They could also benefit from healthier

sleeping patterns, improved relationships with family members, and a boost in self-confidence. This

may be true after only a few months of regular aerobic activity or yoga. Seniors who participate in

physical activity may experience a noticeable decrease in their stress levels as well. Getting enough

physical activity can help seniors perform daily tasks, such as meal preparation, bathing and dress-

ing, and making plans for the future.

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Active Aging for Social WellnessAccording to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, physical activity can aid in prevent-

ing early retirement, and it may also encourage seniors to remain socially active. Since social activity

is vital for overall mental and emotional wellness, seniors who stay active are likely to reach out and

interact with others. This interaction can contribute to an increased sense of purpose and self-worth.

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How Senior Communities Can Promote Active AgingRetirement communities can play an important role in the overall activity level of their

community members. An assisted living facility might have a fitness center, so its resi-

dents are able to stay active as much as possible. A senior living community may engage

seniors in a wide range of activities, such as computer labs, community education class-

es, and organized exercise programs. Another way to keep seniors engaged and interest-

ed in their community (and thus active) is to organize a volunteer program within a retire-

ment community; participants might volunteer their time to serve others within or outside

of the senior living community itself.

When seniors live an active lifestyle, they’re working to stay healthier and possibly even

extend life expectancy. Many seniors require varying degrees of assistance in exploring

their options for a healthy, active life. Senior living communities can help residents of all

health levels to stay active and happy as they age.

With one of the broadest networks of care in the region, you’re sure to find just what

you’re looking for among the numerous senior health care services and living communi-

ties from Concordia Lutheran Ministries. Each one of our beautiful locations goes above

and beyond standard senior living communities to help you feel more at home, providing

you with a beautiful, clean, comfortable and safe community filled with residents and

caregivers who aim to make the most out of every day. Whether you’re looking for a short

stay to rehabilitate from a surgery and illness or a place to call home for years to come,

discover the community that awaits you at every senior living location from Concordia

Lutheran Ministries. Visit us online at www.ConcordiaLM.org, or call our administrative

headquarters at 1-888-352-1571.

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www.concordialm.org

Every senior deserves to make the most of his or her “golden” years. All se-

niors should be treated with dignity and respect, and elderly people should

have access to superior professional care. By taking a few basic steps and

addressing a few common issues, a senior and his or her relatives may ensure

that the best possible care is available at all times.

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