Exercise and physical activity are good for just about everyone, including older adults. No matter your health and physical abilities, you can gain a lot by staying active. In fact, studies show that “taking it easy” is risky. Often, inactivity is more to blame than age when older people lose the ability to do things on their own. Lack of physical activity also can lead to more visits to the doctor, more hospitalizations, and more use of medicines for a variety of illnesses.
Including all 4 types of exercise can benefit a wide range of areas of your life. Staying active can help you: Reach or maintain a healthy weight and reduce risk of excessive weight gain Possibly improve or maintain some aspects of cognitive function, such as your ability to shift quickly between tasks or plan an activity Perk up your mood and reduce feelings of depression
Research has shown that exercise is not only good for your physical health, it also supports emotional and mental health. You can exercise with a friend and get the added benefit of emotional support. So, next time you’re feeling down, anxious, or stressed, try to get up and start moving! Reduce feelings of depression and stress, while improving your mood and overall emotional well-being.
In addition, exercise and physical activity may possibly improve or maintain some aspects of cognitive function, such as your ability to shift quickly between tasks, plan an activity, and ignore irrelevant information.
The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise and Physical Activity infographic. Click to open webpage
Read and share this infographic and help spread the word about the everyday benefits of exercise and physical activity. Here are some exercise ideas to help you lift your mood: Walking, bicycling, or dancing. Endurance activities increase your breathing, get your heart pumping, and boost chemicals in your body that may improve mood.
Yoga. This mind and body practice typically combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and relaxation.
Tai Chi. This “moving meditation” involves shifting the body slowly, gently, and precisely, while breathing deeply.
Activities you enjoy. Whether it’s gardening, playing tennis, kicking around a soccer ball with your grandchildren, or something else, choose an activity you want to do, not one you have to do.
