By Jennifer Blanck, MiCAFE Network Coordinator
People over the age of 65 are at a higher risk of obesity, heart disease and fall-related injuries. This is greatly due to the fact that as people age they tend to lose muscle mass, bone density, energy, and flexibility causing them to lead a more sedentary lifestyle. What many people don’t realize is that they can combat many of these physical health issues just by being more active. Now this doesn’t mean everyone over 65 should rush out and get a gym membership (although there is nothing saying you shouldn’t either), it just means get up and move.
Find a hobby that will help to get and keep you physically active such as gardening, nature walks, fishing, biking or even golf. Many community senior centers offer classes or programs at little to no cost to join such as water aerobics or line dancing. This is also a great way to make new friends and help maintain good mental health as well.
This year National Senior Health & Fitness Day is May 31st. Check with your local area agency on aging, senior centers, parks and recs department, health department or other community agency to see what may be happening near you.