Exercise can improve physical and emotional health for people of all ages. No matter your age, health or abilities, you can benefit from physical activity.

You may think you need to take it easy as you grow older, but inactivity is often more to blame than age when older people become less able to do things on their own. Lack of physical activity also can lead to more visits to the doctor, more hospitalizations and more use of medicines for a variety of illnesses.

Safety First

See your primary care provider before embarking on new activities, particularly if you have chronic conditions or questions about your health. And make sure that you have the right shoes and activewear to get started.

For shoes:

• Choose shoes that are made for the type of physical activity you want to do.
• Look for shoes with flat, non-skid soles, good heel support, enough room for your toes and a cushioned arch that’s not too high or too thick.
• Make sure the shoes fit well and provide proper support for your feet.
• Check your shoes regularly and replace them when they’re run down. You need new shoes when the tread is worn out, your feet feel tired after activity or your shins, knees or hips hurt after activity.

For activewear:

• Choose clothes that work with your activity. Loose shorts are perfect for basketball, but maybe not for yoga.
• Make sure your exercise clothes are comfortable and let you move easily.
• Wear clothes that let air circulate and moisture evaporate.
• As fall approaches and the weather turns cold, wear layers, such as a jacket or top over a T-shirt, so you can take off layers as you warm up.

Be sure to hydrate before, during and after exercising. Be especially cautious about outdoor exercise when it’s hot outside. While it’s pleasant to be outside in balmy weather, it’s best to move your physical activity into air-conditioned spaces if temperatures climb to uncomfortable levels.

Summer and Fall Activity Ideas

Here are ways to stay active and have fun:

• Ride your bike, visit a local park for a hike or simply go for a walk.
• Rediscover a favorite sport such as golf or pickleball. Your local YMCA or community recreation department may offer sports leagues and programs for older adults.
• Spend time with grandchildren. Walk to the park and push them in a swing, for example, or go swimming or bicycling together.

These summer activities can help older adults beat the heat:

• Swim laps or take a water aerobics class.
• Walk in the mall or a big-box store.
• Get friends and family together to go bowling.

Here are a few ideas for physical activity as the weather begins to turn cool:

• Try yoga. Next month is National Yoga Awareness Month, a great time to find special events and trial classes for beginners.
• Take long walks to see the beautiful fall colors. Once the leaves have fallen, raking is good exercise.
• Walk the entire mall or big-box store each time you’re there for shopping.
• Join an indoor sports league, such as basketball, handball or bowling.

If you are interested in bowling, the Aultman Generations Program has a league that meets weekly in North Canton on Tuesdays from Sept. 17 through Nov. 19. The organizational meeting is Sept. 10. Call 330-363-6262 for more information.

Being physically active is one of the most important things you can do each day to maintain and improve your health and keep doing things you enjoy as you get older. No matter your age, make exercise a priority.

For more ideas and information on physical activity for older adults, visit the National Institute on Aging’s Exercise and Physical Activity page.

Source: National Institute on Aging