In-home Care in Rancho Santa Fe: Seniors Should Walk More

Walking is one of the simplest, easiest methods of getting valuable physical exercise. It doesn’t require special equipment or preparation, and you can do it anywhere. If your aging loved one is able to walk, they should do so often—perhaps with the help of in-home care. In Rancho Santa Fe and across California, however, we are learning that we should be thinking a little more carefully about our seniors’ walking habits.

How Much Walking Is Best?

Any amount of walking is helpful, but researchers have established a guideline for those over age 65: at least 150 minutes of walking per week.  150 minutes seems to be a good goal that is workable for most seniors and helps them get the full benefit of their exercise. Seniors can easily reach this goal with just three walks per week lasting less than an hour each.

Where to Walk

Of course, safety is the most important consideration when helping your loved one decide on a walking route. If they are fortunate enough to live in a quiet neighborhood, they can simply walk out the front door! Even then, it may be best to ask a worker with in-home care in San Diego County to accompany the senior to help prevent falls or wandering (in the case of those with declining cognitive health). Other good options are shopping malls, paved trails, and local parks.

Keep Walking with In-home Care in San Diego County

As with any exercise routine, consistency is key when it comes to seniors’ walking schedules. Asking your professional caregiver to add regular walks to your loved one’s routine is a great way to ensure that it happens—otherwise, you’re likely to realize that several days or even weeks have gone by since the last time your parent or loved one took a stroll.

Originally posted 2012-12-18 10:30:58.