Get in the Swim: Benefits of Swimming for Seniors
While regular physical activity is a key component of healthy aging, most likely your senior client or loved one can’t go hiking once per week or run thirty minutes three mornings per week. This leaves families and caregivers with the task of finding a way to help seniors get suitable physical activity. We believe one of the best solutions is getting your senior client or loved one into swimming.
Why is Swimming Great for Seniors?
Swimming done appropriately is perfectly suited for seniors as it offers low-impact, therapeutic form of exercise. This low-risk form of exercise has been reported to offer benefits such as lowering blood pressure, lowering risk of lung disease, improving circulation, lowering risk of asthma and reducing joint pain.
1. Joint Health
Movement is key to the health of your joints, but it can be a challenge to get sufficient activity when there are mobility issues. Swimming is a great way of working the joints for seniors who experience limited mobility.
2. Heart Health
Aerobic activities such as swimming have been lauded for their ability to strengthen the heart and improve circulation. This cardiovascular exercise will provide long-term health benefits to your senior loved one or client.
3. Lung Capacity
As you age, your lung capacity is likely to reduce due to several factors. By incorporating swimming into your routine, you may maintain or increase your lung capacity.
4. Balance & Stability
A study has revealed that men who swim regularly are more than 30 percent less likely to fall than their non-swimming counterparts. This reveals to us that seniors, who are typically susceptible to falls, may experience less instances of falling if they safely swim consistently.
Dipping Your Toes In: Getting Started
Swimming can be physically beneficial to your senior client or loved one. So long as it is done safely and responsibly, seniors can experience a better quality of life. For anyone new to swimming, or getting back into it after a long hiatus, follow these tips from the experts at Silver Sneakers:
- Ramp Up: Although it may be tempting to jump into back swimming with both feet, it’s more effective and safer in the long run. Start with shorter swims and work your way up.
- Plan for Rest: Even after ramping up to your full workout schedule, you should continue to include rest days in your workout schedule to encourage proper recovery.
- Swim with a Buddy: This safety advice from your youth is also applicable to your adult fitness routine. Having a friend join you for swims adds accountability and makes working out fun.
- Review proper stroke technique: View online resources to review or perfect your swim form. For in-person instruction, check out local community centers and other organizations with a swimming curriculum.
Are you currently caring for a loved one at home? Mass Care Link can help you secure financial assistance. Contact Mass Care Link at 866-880-8889 or via info@masscarelink.org today to learn more.