It's important to stay fit and healthy, no matter how old you are. Senior citizens are living longer, more enjoyable lives, and remaining as healthy as possible contributes to that. The AARP Fit & Fun Health Challenge is designed to ensure seniors get up and move and STAY moving. Read on for some fun facts concerning health.
Exercise Can Perk You Up
It's been a long day and you are tired. The last thing you want to do is exercise! But staying healthy requires daily exercise and you will be surprised to find that exercise actually gives you more energy by increasing the blood and oxygen flow to your body. Cardio exercise will also improve your cardiovascular health which is very important for seniors.
If you don't know where to start when it comes to fitness, check out these tips on creating a safe exercise routine for seniors.
1. Life Expectancy Has Risen
The average life expectancy for men and women around the globe increased by 5 years between the years 2000 and 2015. Seniors are now a big part of our world! And the senior population is just going to continue to grow.
2. Digestion Takes Time
You ate your meal in just a few minutes but your body may take up to 12 hours to digest it completely. However, digestion rate varies by gender, age, and the type of food that you have eaten. However, exercise can help promote digestion and a health digestive tract.
3. Obesity Can Kill
Being obese, even as a senior, can increase the risk of developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Exercise is key to preventing and managing obesity.
4. Heart Disease Is a Threat to Seniors
The leading cause of death in the United States in 2007 was heart disease. Be on the lookout for these key heart disease risk factors. Strengthen your heart through regular exercise.
5. Laughing Is Good For You
Laughing is great for heart health. Why? When you laugh, you increase your blood flow by 20%. Plus, laughing can help you feel happier and less stressed.
6. Iron Deficiency Is Bad For You
We need iron to carry oxygen around our body in hemoglobin form. You can become weak and fatigued if you are deficient in iron. Make sure you are getting enough iron in your diet through your foods or supplements.
7. Food Poisoning Can Kill
Out of about 70 million cases of food poisoning a year, 7 million people have died. This figure can include seniors if you are not careful with food prep and storage.
8. Optimism Is Good For You
It's easy to feel negatively towards the world sometimes, but being optimistic is good for your health. According to studies conducted at Boston and Harvard Universities, optimistic people often enjoy lower blood pressure, which reduces the risk of developing coronary artery disease.
Staying healthy is crucial for seniors. The AARP Fit & Fun Health Challenge is a fun and easy way to make sure you or your senior loved one stay healthy and happy this summer with lots of tips and tricks your whole family can enjoy. For more ideas for senior fitness, check out our senior balance exercises!