6 Morning Exercises for Seniors

Author

SENIOR LIFE - PITTSBURGH

For more information about the author, click to view their website: SeniorLIFE

Posted on

Sep 23, 2024

Book/Edition

Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area

We all know that exercise is important for our bodies to stay healthy and happy, especially as we age. However, finding a good exercise routine that is gentle enough for seniors, but keeps your body healthy and moving, can be a real challenge. Below are six morning exercises for seniors that are easy to mix into your morning routine. Regular exercise and stretching can improve range of motion, stability, and all around mental health.

Why Exercise For Older Adults is Important

Exercising helps to slow the progression of many diseases and can even slow the aging process. Studies have shown that older adults, those age 55+, who have been active for most of their lives actually have the similar aerobic fitness of people 30 years younger than them.

For older adults who have not been able to stay active their whole life, it’s not too late to start.  Starting now will help not just in the long-term, but there are also plenty of short-term benefits to exercises for seniors.

Exercise is essential in managing many long-term health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, or back or joint pain. For example, exercise can help improve high blood pressure and can lower your risk of heart disease progression.

Daily Exercises for Seniors

This exercise routine is meant to be versatile and flexible. Do the exercises that feel the best for you and your unique needs. As you make the routine your own, be sure to start slowly and stop if there is any bad pain.

Make sure you have a clear space with plenty of room to move your arms and legs. A chair, water bottle, and towel may also be helpful to have close to you.

Also, always start with some nice stretches to get you going.

Sit to Stand

The sit-to-stand exercise is among one of the best exercises for seniors. It strengthens your lower body and can improve general mobility, and helps make standing up from a chair easier. Eventually, as your strength improves, the goal is to do the sit-to-stand exercise without using your hands.

It is normal to feel mild stretching, pulling, tightness, or discomfort as you do this exercise, but you should stop right away if you feel pain.

How to do the exercise:

  1. Sit on a sturdy chair. Your knees should be bent and your feet should be flat on the floor and shoulder-width apart.
  2. Place your hands lightly on each side of the seat. Keep your back and neck as straight as possible, with your chest slightly forward.
  3. Breathe in slowly. Lean forward and slightly shift your weight to the front of your feet.
  4. Breathe out as you slowly stand up. Try to use as little support from your hands as possible.
  5. Stand and pause for a full breath in and out.
  6. Breathe in as you sit down slowly. Tighten your core and abdominal muscles to control your lowering as much as possible.
  7. Breathe out slowly.
  8. Rest for 1 minute, then do another set of 5-8 repetitions. Repeat for a total of 3 sets if comfortable.

Knee Extensions

Knee extension exercises are used to strengthen thigh muscles. These are big muscles in our body and improving thigh muscle strength can improve mobility, reduce knee injury risk, and rehabilitate knee injuries.

How to do the exercise:

  1. Sitting up tall with your shoulders back and down.
  2. Lifting one leg up, extending at the knee.
  3. Hold briefly at the top of the movement, squeezing the muscles at the front of the thigh before lowering your leg back down.
  4. Ensure the movement is slow and controlled.
  5. Alternate legs, ensuring full knee extension (leg completely straight).
  6. Rest for 1 minute, then do another set of 5-8 repetitions. Repeat for a total of 3 sets if comfortable.

Core twists

Cores twists are a fantastic exercise that not only improve the strength of your trunk muscles, including back and ad muscle, but they also help with twisting mobility.

How to do the exercise:

  1. Grab a medicine ball (or similar object).
  2. Sit comfortably in the chair toward the edge of the seat for extra room. Keep the core (abs and lumbar) tight. Stick the chest out. Both hands should be in front of the body gripping the sides of the medicine ball, with elbows bent.
  3. Lift the ball a couple inches off the lap then rotate the upper body to the right, keeping the ball in front of the body.
  4. Rotate to the middle of the body then rotate to the left, finish by rotating back to the middle.
  5. Each “rep” is one full rotation.
  6. Rest for 1 minute, then do another set of 5-8 repetitions. Repeat for a total of 3 sets if comfortable.

Seated Shoulder Press

This exercise will help to increase strength and mobility of the shoulders. Please be cautious with this exercise if you have any shoulder contraindications, and/or consult with your physician.

How to do this exercise:

  1. Choose a pair of low weight dumbbells or do without weights.
  2. Sit comfortably in the chair with the hips as far back as possible. Ensure that the back is firm to the backrest of the chair.
  3. Keep your core tight.
  4. Start with both elbows spread to the sides of the body and align them under the shoulders. Stick the chest out.
  5. Face the body straight, palms forward, gripping the dumbbells.
  6. Extend the arms up, reaching above the head until they’re fully extended (or get to a range that feels most comfortable). Don’t touch the hands together and keep both arms parallel to each other.
  7. Once the arm’s extension limit has been reached, slowly bring the hands down to the starting position, keeping the elbows spread. Don’t tuck the elbows toward the middle of the body, extend them out till the top of the back feels a pinching sensation (not hurting) at the shoulder blades.

Seated Knee Lifts

Knee lifts exercise and strengthen the hip flexors, and quads. Each is an important muscle for sitting and standing.

How to do the exercise:

  1. Sit on a sturdy chair, keeping the back straight and holding the sides for support if needed. Avoid leaning back.
  2. Slowly lift the right knee slowly towards your chest, then back to the beginning position with control.
  3. Repeat the motion using the left leg.
  4. Alternate the legs. Remember to keep your back straight and avoid leaning back to gain new heights.

Seated Chest Press

The seated chest press will exercise your chest muscles, shoulders, and triceps.

How to do the exercise:

This exercise can be done with a resistance band, dumbells or with no weight all. Choose the option that best meets your fitness level.

  1. Place the resistance band/weights/or empty fists at a point on the chair where it’s directly behind the back just under where the shoulder blades would be. Ensure that the resistance band isn’t able to move on the back of the chair; moving it during the exercise can result in injury or target the wrong muscle groups.
  2. Sit comfortably in the chair with the hips as far back as possible. Ensure that the back is firm to the backrest of the chair.
  3. Keep the core muscles tight. Stick your chest out.
  4. Keep both palms down, elbows bent and parallel to the shoulders. Both hands should be positioned just outside of shoulder width.
  5. Push the resistance band forward until the arms are fully extended in front of the body (don’t touch hands together).
  6. Slowly reverse the movement back to starting position.

Some General Tips

Remember, starting a new exercise routine will take some practice and “getting used to.” Don’t get discouraged if you can’t do an exercise or can only do a few repetitions.

Here are few things that are normal when starting a new exercise regimen. It’s normal to:

  • feel tired when starting an exercise routine.
  • have muscle soreness that lasts a few days. As you get stronger, you may not feel muscle soreness.

Here are some tips that can help make your new exercise journey easier:

  • Use smooth, steady movements.
  • Do not hold your breath during strength exercises. This can cause unsafe changes in your blood pressure.
  • Breathe in slowly through your nose, and breathe out slowly through your mouth.

Most importantly, Always consult with a physician before beginning any exercise program.

Keeping Seniors in Their Homes, It’s What We Do.

At Senior LIFE, we focus on taking care of the whole person so that they can maintain their independence for as long as possible.  We offer various types of therapy for members. Depending on members’ individual care plans, they may receive any or all of the therapies we offer.

  • Occupational Therapy
  • Physical Therapy
  • Speech/Language Therapy
  • Recreational Therapy

We are committed to keeping members independent as long as possible. There are no limits on rehabilitation or the amount of therapy services a member can receive.

Our care offerings don’t stop at therapies.  We also offer all the medical and supportive services our members need. These services can include physicians and specialists, nursing care, physical, occupational and speech therapies, personal and home care, medications, meals and nutritional counseling, eye, dental and foot care, durable medical equipment and other medically necessary services.

The LIFE Program is a Medicare and Medicaid approved long-term care program that provides complete medical care and supportive services for persons 55 years and older so that they can remain living in their home. The LIFE Program is an alternative to nursing and personal care homes. https://seniorlifepa.com/about

To learn more about the LIFE Program, or to see if it’s the right fit for you and your loved ones, contact us today! 

Other Articles You May Like

Rehabilitation Services Provided in Skilled Nursing Facilities

Rehabilitation Services Provided in Skilled Nursing FacilitiesRehabilitation services are a cornerstone of skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), designed to help individuals recover from illnesses, injuries, or surgeries and regain their independence. Heres a closer look at the rehabilitation services offered in skilled nursing facilities and their benefits.1. Physical TherapyPhysical therapy is a critical component of rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities. It focuses on helping residents restore strength, mobility, and physical function after surgery, injury, or a medical event such as a stroke. Key aspects of physical therapy include: Strength Training: Exercises to rebuild muscle strength and endurance. Balance and Coordination: Techniques to prevent falls and improve stability. Mobility Exercises: Activities designed to improve range of motion, walking ability, and the use of mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs. By working closely with licensed physical therapists, residents can achieve improved independence and a better quality of life.2. Occupational TherapyOccupational therapy in SNFs is designed to help residents regain the skills needed for daily living. This therapy focuses on enhancing a persons ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, grooming, eating, and bathing. Specific interventions include: Adaptive Techniques: Teaching residents how to use assistive devices or modify tasks to suit their abilities. Fine Motor Skills Training: Improving dexterity for tasks like buttoning clothes or holding utensils. Energy Conservation Strategies: Helping residents manage fatigue and perform tasks more efficiently. Occupational therapists work with residents to restore independence and adapt to new physical or cognitive limitations.3. Speech TherapySpeech therapy addresses communication and swallowing difficulties that may result from strokes, neurological disorders, or other medical conditions. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in skilled nursing facilities focus on: Swallowing Therapy: Treating dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) to prevent complications like choking or aspiration pneumonia. Communication Training: Helping residents regain or improve their ability to speak, understand language, or use alternative communication methods. Cognitive Therapy: Assisting residents with memory, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Speech therapy improves both safety and quality of life by enabling residents to eat, communicate, and engage with others effectively.4. Specialized Rehabilitation ProgramsSkilled nursing facilities often provide rehabilitation programs tailored to specific conditions, including: Post-Stroke Rehabilitation: Combining physical, occupational, and speech therapies to address the multifaceted challenges of stroke recovery. Orthopedic Recovery: Rehabilitation for individuals recovering from joint replacement surgeries, fractures, or other musculoskeletal injuries. Cardiac Rehabilitation: Programs focused on improving heart health and endurance following heart attacks or surgeries. Neurological Rehabilitation: Care for residents with conditions such as Parkinsons disease, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injuries. These specialized programs ensure that residents receive targeted care to address their unique recovery goals.5. Benefits of Rehabilitation Services in Skilled Nursing FacilitiesRehabilitation services in skilled nursing facilities offer numerous benefits, including: Faster Recovery: Access to expert care and tailored therapies helps residents recover more quickly. Enhanced Mobility and Independence: Therapy restores physical function and confidence, enabling residents to perform tasks on their own. Improved Quality of Life: Rehabilitation helps residents regain their abilities, reducing frustration and fostering a sense of accomplishment. Preventing Complications: Therapies such as swallowing training and balance exercises minimize risks like choking, falls, and re-hospitalization.

Healthy Vision: Tips for Saving Your Eyesight

Our eyes are incredibly precious, yet its easy to take our vision for granted until problems arise. Lets focus on proactive steps to maintain and improve our eye health. Here are some tips to keep your vision in top shape:Schedule Regular Eye Exams:One of the best ways to safeguard your vision is by scheduling regular eye exams. Comprehensive eye exams can detect vision problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of further complications. Make it a priority to see your eye doctor at least once a year, even if you dont currently wear glasses or contact lenses.Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays: Just like your skin, your eyes can be damaged by the suns harmful UV rays. Whenever youre outdoors, especially on bright, sunny days, wear sunglasses that offer UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to shield your eyes from potential damage. Give Your Eyes a Break from Screens: In todays digital age, many of us spend a significant amount of time staring at screens, whether its for work, leisure, or staying connected. Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. To reduce eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.Eat a Balanced Diet:Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as leafy greens, colorful fruits and vegetables, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, and nuts and seeds. These nutrients can help protect against age-related vision problems like macular degeneration and cataracts.Practice Good Eye Hygiene:Proper eye hygiene is essential for preventing eye infections and irritation. Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses. Follow your eye doctors recommendations for contact lens care, including proper cleaning, disinfecting, and storage.Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to dry eyes, so be sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily to keep your eyes and body hydrated.Get Plenty of Sleep:Adequate sleep is crucial for overall health, including eye health. During sleep, your eyes receive much-needed rest and replenishment. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help reduce eye fatigue and maintain optimal visual function.By incorporating these simple yet effective tips into your daily routine, you can help protect and preserve your precious eyesight for years to come.Your eyesight is irreplaceable, so take care of your eyes today for a brighter tomorrow!

Why Is Staying Hydrated So Difficult for Seniors?

Hot summer days are a good time for everyone to think about staying hydrated. For older adults the topic of hydration is a year-round discussion that never goes away. Its a serious issue for most seniors but doesnt get resolved because it needs to be addressed every day and cant be solved with a pill.Seniors have a very high risk for dehydration, which is one of the most frequent causes of hospitalization after the age of 65. They have a greater risk of dehydration for many reasons, including the fact that as we age, our kidneys become less efficient at conserving fluids, our sense of thirst weakens, and we are less able to adjust to changes in temperature. Some medications like diuretics, sedatives, and laxatives can also cause increased fluid loss.Dehydration can cause temporary symptoms that mimic symptoms of Alzheimers. If dementia-like symptoms seem to appear suddenly, it could be dehydration which is easily curable.Symptoms of dehydration range from minor to severe and include persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, headaches, dizziness, nausea, forgetfulness, confusion, lethargy, increased heart rate, sunken eyes, dry mouth, dark colored urine.  Urine should be clear to pale yellow. I tell my clients that if their urine is darker than pale yellow, they should head straight to the kitchen from the bathroom and drink a full glass of water.  Keeping a glass of water beside you all day to sip on rarely results in someone drinking enough fluids.  Its more effective to drink the entire glass, even if its a small glass.  Seniors cant rely on their sense of thirst to tell them when to drink water.  Scheduling a glass at each meal and/or after a bathroom visit, making sure to drink the full glass, is the best way to make sure youve gotten your full daily amount.If you have any questions, please call us at 303-444-4040. 

Local Services By This Author

Senior LIFE Ebensburg

LIFE Programs 429 Manor Drive, Ebensburg, Pennsylvania, 15931

The Senior LIFE program, also known as Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE), is a comprehensive healthcare and support services program designed to help older adults aged 55 and above live independently in their homes and communities for as long as possible, rather than moving to a nursing home.  Senior LIFE is a Medicare and Medicaid approved long-term care program that offers a wide range of medical and non-medical services to eligible individuals. It is a one-stop solution for all healthcare needs, providing a dedicated team of professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists, and home care coordinators. The program aims to enhance the quality of life for seniors by enabling them to remain in the comfort of their own homes while receiving the necessary care and support.Eligibility and CostTo be eligible for Senior LIFE, individuals must meet certain age, location, and medical criteria. If eligible for Medicaid and living in the community, there are no monthly premiums, deductibles, or copayments for any approved drug, service, or care provided by Senior LIFE. For those eligible for Medicare but not Medicaid, a monthly premium is charged. Private pay options are also available for those who do not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid.Services ProvidedSenior LIFE offers a comprehensive array of services tailored to each member's individual needs. Upon enrollment, members and their families work with an interdisciplinary team to develop a personalized care plan. This plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted as the member's needs change. The services provided by Senior LIFE include:Medical Services:- Primary care physician and nursing services- Specialist consultations- Medication management- Diagnostic services (e.g., lab tests, X-rays)- Hospital and nursing home care (when needed)Therapies:- Physical, occupational, and speech therapies- Rehabilitation servicesPersonal Care:- Assistance with activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, grooming)- Meal preparation and nutritional counseling- Light housekeeping and laundry servicesSocial and Emotional Support:- Social work services and counseling- Recreational activities and socialization opportunities- Dementia care and support Transportation:- Door-to-door transportation to and from the Senior LIFE center and medical appointmentsPalliative Care:- Specialized care for members with life-limiting illnesses- End-of-life care and supportSenior LIFE CentersSenior LIFE operates health and wellness centers in various locations, which serve as hubs for members to receive services. These centers are staffed by healthcare professionals and offer a warm, inviting environment for members to socialize, receive hot meals, see their doctors, and participate in therapies and activities.Interdisciplinary Team Approach - One of the key strengths of the Senior LIFE program is its interdisciplinary team approach. Each member's care is coordinated by a dedicated team of professionals who work together to address their unique needs. This team-based approach ensures that members receive comprehensive and integrated care, with seamless communication and collaboration among all providers.Quality of Life and IndependenceThe goal of Senior LIFE is to enhance the quality of life for older adults and promote their independence. By providing a wide range of services and support, the program aims to help seniors remain active, engaged, and living safely in their own homes and communities for as long as possible, avoiding or delaying the need for nursing home placement.  Senior LIFE offers a comprehensive and coordinated approach to caring for older adults, providing a one-stop solution for all their medical, social, and personal care needs. With its dedicated team of professionals, personalized care plans, and commitment to promoting independence and quality of life, the program serves as a valuable alternative to nursing home care for eligible seniors.Contact us to learn more!

Senior LIFE Greensburg

LIFE Programs 123 Triangle Dr, Greensburg, Pennsylvania, 15601

The Senior LIFE program, also known as Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE), is a comprehensive healthcare and support services program designed to help older adults aged 55 and above live independently in their homes and communities for as long as possible, rather than moving to a nursing home.  Senior LIFE is a Medicare and Medicaid approved long-term care program that offers a wide range of medical and non-medical services to eligible individuals. It is a one-stop solution for all healthcare needs, providing a dedicated team of professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists, and home care coordinators. The program aims to enhance the quality of life for seniors by enabling them to remain in the comfort of their own homes while receiving the necessary care and support.Eligibility and CostTo be eligible for Senior LIFE, individuals must meet certain age, location, and medical criteria. If eligible for Medicaid and living in the community, there are no monthly premiums, deductibles, or copayments for any approved drug, service, or care provided by Senior LIFE. For those eligible for Medicare but not Medicaid, a monthly premium is charged. Private pay options are also available for those who do not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid.Services ProvidedSenior LIFE offers a comprehensive array of services tailored to each member's individual needs. Upon enrollment, members and their families work with an interdisciplinary team to develop a personalized care plan. This plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted as the member's needs change. The services provided by Senior LIFE include:Medical Services:- Primary care physician and nursing services- Specialist consultations- Medication management- Diagnostic services (e.g., lab tests, X-rays)- Hospital and nursing home care (when needed)Therapies:- Physical, occupational, and speech therapies- Rehabilitation servicesPersonal Care:- Assistance with activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, grooming)- Meal preparation and nutritional counseling- Light housekeeping and laundry servicesSocial and Emotional Support:- Social work services and counseling- Recreational activities and socialization opportunities- Dementia care and support Transportation:- Door-to-door transportation to and from the Senior LIFE center and medical appointmentsPalliative Care:- Specialized care for members with life-limiting illnesses- End-of-life care and supportSenior LIFE CentersSenior LIFE operates health and wellness centers in various locations, which serve as hubs for members to receive services. These centers are staffed by healthcare professionals and offer a warm, inviting environment for members to socialize, receive hot meals, see their doctors, and participate in therapies and activities.Interdisciplinary Team Approach - One of the key strengths of the Senior LIFE program is its interdisciplinary team approach. Each member's care is coordinated by a dedicated team of professionals who work together to address their unique needs. This team-based approach ensures that members receive comprehensive and integrated care, with seamless communication and collaboration among all providers.Quality of Life and IndependenceThe goal of Senior LIFE is to enhance the quality of life for older adults and promote their independence. By providing a wide range of services and support, the program aims to help seniors remain active, engaged, and living safely in their own homes and communities for as long as possible, avoiding or delaying the need for nursing home placement.  Senior LIFE offers a comprehensive and coordinated approach to caring for older adults, providing a one-stop solution for all their medical, social, and personal care needs. With its dedicated team of professionals, personalized care plans, and commitment to promoting independence and quality of life, the program serves as a valuable alternative to nursing home care for eligible seniors.Contact us to learn more!

Senior LIFE Washington

LIFE Programs 2114 North Franklin Drive, Washington, Pennsylvania, 15301

The Senior LIFE program, also known as Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE), is a comprehensive healthcare and support services program designed to help older adults aged 55 and above live independently in their homes and communities for as long as possible, rather than moving to a nursing home.  Senior LIFE is a Medicare and Medicaid approved long-term care program that offers a wide range of medical and non-medical services to eligible individuals. It is a one-stop solution for all healthcare needs, providing a dedicated team of professionals, including doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists, and home care coordinators. The program aims to enhance the quality of life for seniors by enabling them to remain in the comfort of their own homes while receiving the necessary care and support.Eligibility and CostTo be eligible for Senior LIFE, individuals must meet certain age, location, and medical criteria. If eligible for Medicaid and living in the community, there are no monthly premiums, deductibles, or copayments for any approved drug, service, or care provided by Senior LIFE. For those eligible for Medicare but not Medicaid, a monthly premium is charged. Private pay options are also available for those who do not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid.Services ProvidedSenior LIFE offers a comprehensive array of services tailored to each member's individual needs. Upon enrollment, members and their families work with an interdisciplinary team to develop a personalized care plan. This plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted as the member's needs change. The services provided by Senior LIFE include:Medical Services:- Primary care physician and nursing services- Specialist consultations- Medication management- Diagnostic services (e.g., lab tests, X-rays)- Hospital and nursing home care (when needed)Therapies:- Physical, occupational, and speech therapies- Rehabilitation servicesPersonal Care:- Assistance with activities of daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, grooming)- Meal preparation and nutritional counseling- Light housekeeping and laundry servicesSocial and Emotional Support:- Social work services and counseling- Recreational activities and socialization opportunities- Dementia care and support Transportation:- Door-to-door transportation to and from the Senior LIFE center and medical appointmentsPalliative Care:- Specialized care for members with life-limiting illnesses- End-of-life care and supportSenior LIFE CentersSenior LIFE operates health and wellness centers in various locations, which serve as hubs for members to receive services. These centers are staffed by healthcare professionals and offer a warm, inviting environment for members to socialize, receive hot meals, see their doctors, and participate in therapies and activities.Interdisciplinary Team Approach - One of the key strengths of the Senior LIFE program is its interdisciplinary team approach. Each member's care is coordinated by a dedicated team of professionals who work together to address their unique needs. This team-based approach ensures that members receive comprehensive and integrated care, with seamless communication and collaboration among all providers.Quality of Life and IndependenceThe goal of Senior LIFE is to enhance the quality of life for older adults and promote their independence. By providing a wide range of services and support, the program aims to help seniors remain active, engaged, and living safely in their own homes and communities for as long as possible, avoiding or delaying the need for nursing home placement.  Senior LIFE offers a comprehensive and coordinated approach to caring for older adults, providing a one-stop solution for all their medical, social, and personal care needs. With its dedicated team of professionals, personalized care plans, and commitment to promoting independence and quality of life, the program serves as a valuable alternative to nursing home care for eligible seniors.Contact us to learn more!