Both you and your parents need daily exercise. The problem is that your parents aren’t likely to get exercise unless they’re joining you. What are some of the easier fitness activities that you can do together?
Dance
Dancing around a room is exercise, but it doesn’t feel like it. With so many beginner videos available on services like YouTube, it’s easy to find new dances to try. Start with ballroom dancing and work your way to Bollywood and Hip Hop.
As you and your parents find dances that appeal to you, save videos for daily workouts. You may discover fitness programs like Zumba that incorporate dance are enjoyable, too.
Disc Golf
Get outside and play disc golf together. As long as your parents can walk along a course, they’ll enjoy the strategy of throwing the frisbee-like disc at the cage. You’ll be competing for the lowest score while getting plenty of exercise walking from one hole to the next.
Nature Walks
Look up some of the more accessible trails in a natural area. Many have groomed trails and boardwalks, suiting a parent who needs a walking stick or cane. Along the way, your parents can point out plants, birds, and animals they spot.
Pilates
Pilates dates back to the 1920s when Joseph Pilates came up with the exercise program to help boost core strength and balance. Look for beginner programs that help strengthen muscle, increase endurance and stamina, and help with flexibility. Benefits include pain relief, especially in the back, and better balance for fall prevention.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a martial art that focuses on controlled movements and meditation. There are several forms, so try different instructional videos or classes to find those that appeal to your parents. The goal of Tai Chi is both on the muscle strength that helps with balance and mobility, but it also helps reduce the stress that can lead to anxiety.
Yoga
Yoga is one of the best exercises for older adults as there are programs that you can do from a chair. If your parents’ mobility issues keeping them from standing up for long periods, Yoga is perfect.
Not only does Yoga help stretch and tone muscles, but the breathing exercises help reduce stress. It’s also good for improving balance as many poses have you standing on one foot with or without the use of a chair or wall for support.
Home care assistance provides the helping hand your parents need when you’re not with them. Hire caregivers to assist them with meals, exercise routines, transportation, and more.
You’ll have the time required to see your friends, spend time with other family members, or take care of yourself. Call an elder care specialist and ask about prices for home care assistance services.
