Here are ways Charlotte seniors can stay active during their golden years
Keeping active later in life isn’t just about keeping busy. Being active also comes with its fair share of health benefits.
According to the National Institute on Aging, staying active can help control blood pressure and can also assist in the management of conditions like arthritis, Type 2 diabetes, and nearly eight types of cancer.
More than the physical benefits, keeping active can also reduce feelings of depression and improve your overall mood. Here are the eight ways older Charlotteans can keep active at home and in their communities.
Dancing can keep body and mind synchronized
Dancing can be a fun and effective way to get your body moving. The best part is you get to go at your own pace. Whether it’s in your own home or with a group at a Charlotte Zumba class, dance is a great mental and physical outlet.
Try walking, biking or hiking
Charlotte has its fair share of parks and trails. While the weather may not always allow it, walking, biking and hiking are three options for seniors who want to stay active. Be sure to check weather temperatures before leaving your home to ensure conditions are not extreme.
T’ai chi and pakua can also be an alternative
T’ai chi or “Shadowboxing,” is an ancient Chinese martial art practiced globally for health and meditation purposes. According to the T’ai Chi Foundation, the practice can help seniors improve balance, pain management and cognitive functionality.
Meditation and martial arts centers in Charlotte such as The Peaceful Dragon and River Flow Holistic offer t’ai chi classes for older students. Some businesses, like Suuz Moves, even do house calls.
Gardening presents overall health benefits
The constant physical movement that comes along with a lot of gardening activities is enough for someone of any age to break a sweat. However, for older individuals, gardening can help improve more than just mobility, AARP reports.
Along with improved flexibility and stamina, gardening can also lower stress levels, combat loneliness and lower risk of dementia. Luckily, Charlotte weather permits a viable environment for many plants and flowers to grow, especially during the spring.
Swimming can help ease joint and muscle pain
Aquatic aerobics isn’t just fun, it’s great for joint and muscle relief, too. Places like the YMCA of Greater Charlotte in Dilworth, and the Levine Jewish Community Center in Lansdowne, offer a variety of classes for swimmers of all experience levels.
According to the CDC, regular aerobic activity such as swimming and aquatic aerobics can help decrease the risk of chronic illnesses and improve mobility in those who suffer from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
