Companion Care in San Marcos: Keeping Seniors Active and Involved

Keeping Seniors Active and InvolvedAs we age, it becomes increasingly difficult to get the proper exercise needed to maintain overall health. For seniors that are unable to move freely, there are several activities that promote joint health, but do not create a burden or impossible amount of movement for your loved one receiving companion care.  In San Marcos and elsewhere in San Diego County are able to suggest, and transport clients to, community based organizations that offer fitness-related activities for elderly clients.

For seniors that still have moderate degree of movement, water aerobics classes can be a great way to spice things up. Many senior-friendly facilities such as family YMCAs offer some type of water classes, and while providing much needed exercise for the elderly, water aerobics also provides the opportunity for seniors to interact and socialize with people their own age. This can provide a sense of security and reduce feelings of loneliness, especially for those living on their own or those with deceased partners. This activity provides minimal resistance because it takes place in the water, but it allows muscles and joints to get a workout while enjoying a fun time with friends.

If your loved one is a little less mobile, activities like walking a pet or shopping can be a great sources of much-needed exercise. As providers of companion care in San Marcos, we provide caregivers who can suggest, and participate in community based and private activities that allow seniors to feel a sense of belonging and companionship that can keep their spirits uplifted. Walking a small pet or walking around the mall will provide exercise, while still giving the elderly a fun activity that does not feel like exercise, but so will taking part in Tai Chi at the nearest Senior Center.

For any senior, motion sensors built into video games can be an inviting way to exercise. Experts explain that using motor skills while playing a game can be a great way to improve brain waves and maintain the overall function of motor skills, while still getting a minor workout that can prevent the atrophy of joints and bones. Many video game companies have started to make video games that are easy to learn and easy to play, accompanying the needs of the elderly. While this type of exercise is probably not enough in and of itself, when accompanied by a daily walk, it can help keep senior citizens active and healthy. Overall, by taking advantage of these easy and fun ways to exercise, your loved one can improve joint movement, prevent muscle atrophy, and have an activity on their calendar that they can look forward to.

Tim Colling
Tim Colling

Tim Colling is the founder and President of A Servant's Heart In-Home Care, which provided in-home caregiving services in San Diego County, and also of A Servant's Heart Geriatric Care Management, which provided
professional geriatric care management services and long term care placement services in San Diego County. Tim has more than 30 years of experience in management in a variety of industries. He held a Certified Care Manager credential from the National Academy of Certified Care Managers. Tim is also a Certified Public Accountant (retired), and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from California State University at San Diego. In addition to writing blog posts here for the Servant’s Heart blog, Tim also is a regular contributor to HealthLine.com and to FamilyAffaires.com as well as blogs of other eldercare services provider companies. Finally, Tim is also the president of A Servant's Heart Web Design and Marketing, which provides home care marketing as well as website design and online marketing for those who serve the elderly and their families.

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