Martial Arts for Seniors and the Elderly

Author

Griswold Home Care

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Griswold Home Care

Posted on

Dec 04, 2024

Book/Edition

Colorado - Boulder County

When it comes to movement and flexibility as we age, the old adage “use it or lose it” definitely applies. The more sedentary a person becomes, the harder it becomes to get up and move around. This can also become dangerous, since as we lose flexibility and mobility, injuries and falls become more likely. Exercise programs as we age are a must to stay healthy and safe. But what exercise program will be enjoyable and also appropriate for your age?

It might surprise you to hear that martial arts are a great choice for seniors who want to stay active and mobile. Martial arts for seniors are the perfect tool to help you stay motivated to exercise and maintain a sense of independence. Elderly martial arts also offer an opportunity to socialize in a group class setting. 

The Four Best Martial Arts for Seniors

Tai Chi

When it comes to martial arts for older adults, Tai Chi is an excellent choice. Tai Chi has no contact, so it is gentle, safe, and comes with very minimal risk for injury. It focuses on balance, stability, flexibility, and muscle control – all things seniors need to stay healthy and injury free. Tai chi can also help reduce knee and back pain, including the pain associated with arthritis. 

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu adds some light contact to your martial arts practice. Designed for self-defense, Jiu Jitsu is a great martial arts practice for older people as it gives you a sense of empowerment and self-reliance. It comes with its own special vocabulary, which will boost mental acuity while also building physical strength. It is a great choice for those who want to try contact martial arts but not put too much strain on their joints. 

Aikido

Aikido is another safe choice when looking for martial arts for the elderly since it focuses mainly on standing movements with minimal sparring. Some studios will offer a specialized aikido class called “no fall aikido” for seniors. Like other martial arts for old people, it will help you build confidence and learn a form of self-defense. It also helps develop the ability to stay calm in stressful or unfamiliar situations. 

Karate

The Japanese art of Karate is often associated with young people, but it has many benefits for the elderly as well. It is safe and easily adaptable to various skill levels. There is no age limit on earning a black belt. 

Martial arts are great for seniors who want to stay active but feel bored by “safer” or mundane activities like walking or yoga (which are both great and useful, but not right for everyone). They help increase strength, confidence, and mental health. They offer a sense of community and accomplishment, both things' seniors need as they age to stave off potential depression and loneliness. They are also just fun!

As always, chat with your doctor or primary care provider before jumping into any exercise program. They may be able to offer helpful tips or information you should share with your trainer to help you modify the exercise program to keep you safe and healthy. And never be afraid to tell your trainer you need help or adjustments – it is what they are there for. They also want to keep you happy, safe and injury free. 

To learn more about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today at 1-800-GRISWOLD

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Non-Medical 10128 A Airport Court, Broomfield, Colorado, 80021

Griswold Home Care is a non-medical home care company. This type of home care is becoming more popular than nursing homes and our home care services are usually used in conjunction with home health care and assisted living services. We employ Caregivers who give in-home care services such as personal care, Homemaking, Companionship and other home care services. Our non-medical home care office fees are kept in a way that Caregivers can be paid decent wages, which in turn helps offices to be able to attract the right people in the community. We keep our administrative overhead to a minimum in order to be the most cost effective solution for our Clients and their families.At Griswold Home Care for Westminster, Broomfield, and Boulder, we understand that you or a loved one may require care in the comfort of your own home. 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If you want to know more about the services we offer and how we can help you and your loved ones, contact us today.To Griswold Home Care, it has been our privilege to be a part of your journey and we look forward to serving you with passion and spirit.

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By keeping our administrative overhead to a minimum, we focus on delivering high-quality care while maintaining affordability.We take pride in our award-winning reputation and our ability to adapt to the evolving needs of our clients. Our dedication to continuous improvement and client satisfaction ensures that we remain at the forefront of the non-medical home care industry.Contact Us TodayIf you or a loved one are considering non-medical in-home care services in Westminster, Broomfield, or Boulder, Griswold Home Care is here to help. Our experienced team is ready to provide the compassionate support you need to live comfortably and confidently in your own home. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in creating a personalized care plan that meets your unique needs.At Griswold Home Care, we are honored to be part of your journey and look forward to serving you with dedication and heart.