Active Aging Week Highlights The Positive Impacts Of Physical Activity On Health And Wellness
Our mission at Active Wellness Center is to inspire healthier lives and communities at every age and stage. This mission aligns perfectly with Active Aging Week, which celebrates and highlights the positive aspects of aging, and encourages older adults to live actively in order to enjoy optimal health and wellbeing. Active Aging Week takes place September 30 – October 6.
Aging and health
Some factors that affect aging are nonmodifiable such as genetics, gender and physical age, but aging in and of itself is not synonymous with illness or disease. Many of the physical changes that happen as we age are due to lifestyle and it is possible to positively impact your health span – or disability-free life expectancy – and improve your quality of life by developing healthy habits now. Research shows that healthy habits such as…
- good nutrition
- physical activity
- no or cessation of smoking
- minimal alcohol consumption
- intellectual stimulation
- meaningful social relationships
- and a sense of purpose
…can prolong vitality and preempt or postpone disability. It’s also important to treat any medical conditions that may not currently present symptoms – such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes – and be vigilant about managing them under a doctor’s care if they do develop into symptomatic illness.
Use it or lose it
We know unequivocally that humans have the ability to build muscle and improve aerobic capacity regardless of age. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) notes that regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health because it can prevent or postpone:
- Sarcopenia – decrease in muscle mass and strength
- Osteoporosis – loss of bone density
- Osteoarthritis – degeneration of joint cartilage and underlying bone
- Heart disease and stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- and more!
The CDC recommends at minimum, per week:
- 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise
- Two strength training sessions
- Balance, stability and mobility training (can be integrated into aerobic and/or strength sessions)
Active at Reed’s Crossing’s Re:Act Brain and Body Training incorporates all of these components PLUS dual-tasking and exergaming for a fresh, dynamic workout that can also positively influence brain health and cognition. This robust style of training can help to engage, motivate, challenge, achieve, reward, and elicit results faster than traditional methods.
Group fitness classes are another great way to enjoy the benefits of exercise in a fun, community-building environment. Active offers a variety of classes designed for beginners through advanced exercisers. We’ve even added a few special classes to celebrate active agers this week:
- Aqua S.M.I.L.E.: Wed., Oct. 2 from 10:00-10:30 a.m.
- (Slow Movement Intensity Lowered Exercise) This shallow water class focuses on improving circulation, strength, range-of-motion and flexibility through low impact exercise. Taught by Victoria Franklin.
- Chair Yoga (also on our regular schedule): Thurs., Oct. 3 from 12:00-12:30 p.m.
- Chair yoga is a gentle practice that is beneficial to all. You will use the support of the chair to arrive in yoga poses, move, breathe and ultimately feel good in your body! Benefits of chair yoga include better mobility, increased strength and flexibility, reduced stress and pain, and relaxation. Taught by Sera Eden.
- Golden Chair Dance: Fri., Oct. 4 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.
- Warm up and get down with this adaptive dance class. We’ll spend time getting acclimated to movement on the chair while grooving and stretching together. Then you’ll learn a special dance combination to challenge your memorization skills as you exercise! Finally, a 5-minute cool-down will leave you feeling centered and full of music. Taught by Kara Shuster.
Ultimately, our message to you is control what you can and take advantage of the knowledge and skills your Active at Reed’s Crossing team has to offer. We are here to help you build a more well-rounded, fulfilling and healthier life!