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Cardiovascular exercise is essential for staying healthy and vibrant, especially after age 70.The American Heart Association recommends seniors aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise(Opens in a new window) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week, along with muscle-strengthening activities twice a week. Only 14% of adults 65 and older (Opens in a new window)meet these goals, even though falling short can increase the risk of chronic disease, reduce quality of life and lead to higher health care costs over time.Why Should Seniors Do Cardio?Regular cardio not only helps keep seniors moving and independent, but it also lowers the risk of chronic conditions like hypertension and dementia. Any amount of cardio, no matter how small, can have a real impact.Benefits of cardio for seniors include:Improved Heart Health: Cardiovascular exercise strengthens the heart, promoting healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.Stronger Muscles: Severe muscle loss(Opens in a new window) affects one in three older adults, making daily activities such as climbing stairs or standing from a chair more difficult.Joint Health and Mobility: By delivering oxygen-rich blood and lubrication to the joints, exercise promotes the mobility needed for tasks like fastening a seatbelt and stepping in and out of the shower.Reduced Risk of Falls: Cardio strengthens muscles, improves balance and encourages coordination, reducing the likelihood of falls and resulting injuries.Weight Management: Body fat levels often increase with age, but regular exercise can fight the accumulation of visceral fat.Metabolic Health: By improving insulin sensitivity, aerobic exercise helps individuals with Type 2 diabetes manage blood sugar levels more effectively.Immune Function: Cardio stimulates the immune system, helping the body defend against common illnesses like colds and the flu.Cognitive Function: Activities like walking and cycling increase blood flow to the brain, supporting memory and reducing the risk of cognitive decline.Improved Mood: Exercise releases endorphins, alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety while fostering overall happiness.Social Well-Being: While the buddy system isn't always mandatory, walking with a neighbor or friend can promote socialization and bonding.Better Sleep Quality: Physical activity helps regulate sleep cycles, promoting deeper and more restorative rest.Cardio for Seniors: Activities to Get the Heart PumpingThe key to cardio exercises for seniors is finding activities that are enjoyable, accessible and safe. Seniors should aim for 20 to 30 minutes of activity most days, adjusting intensity based on their exercise history, health status and comfort levels. Before starting any new exercise routine, it's important for seniors to consult a health care provider, especially if they have a history of heart or other medical diagnoses.Here are some excellent cardio activities for seniors to try:Walking: Walking is one of the easiest and most effective forms of exercise. A brisk 20- to 30-minute walk several times a week improves cardiovascular health, strengthens the lower body and enhances balance. Use aids like canes or walking poles, if needed, and choose routes with even terrain to reduce fall risks.Dancing: Dancing, from ballroom to Zumba, is a fun way to improve heart health and coordination. Classes or dancing at home to favorite songs are great options. Wear secure, supportive shoes to minimize tripping risks.Swimming: Swimming is a low-impact, full-body workout that's perfect for those with joint issues like arthritis or osteoporosis. Water aerobics classes can make the activity social and enjoyable.Cycling: Cycling, whether outdoors or on a stationary bike, strengthens the legs and promotes heart health. If balance is a concern, consider sticking with a stationary bike or fitting a traditional bike with adaptive wheels.Yoga: Gentle yoga blends aerobics with strength, balance and flexibility. It also improves relaxation and lung capacity through breathing techniques. Beginner-friendly classes like Hatha or restorative yoga are ideal for older adults.Hiking: Hiking combines cardiovascular benefits with the joy of spending time in nature. Look for trails with manageable inclines and stable paths. It's important that hikers stick with a companion or group for safety and let others know when and where they are going.At-Home Cardio Exercises for SeniorsThere's no need to leave home to get in a good workout. These simple exercises require minimal space and no special equipment. By working the largest muscle groups of the body, they're ideal for not only increasing heart rate, but also improving functional strength in older adults:Squat: Stand in front of a sturdy chair, then send your hips down and back to sit on the chair. Pause, then drive through your legs to stand back up. As you gain strength, try to "tap" your hips to the chair rather than fully sitting down. Repeat several times.Lunge: Stand tall and step one foot forward. Bend your knees, keeping your front knee behind your toes. Push back to standing and switch legs. Use a chair for support if needed. Repeat several times.Get-Up: Sit on the floor and experiment with ways to get back up roll, kneel or use your hands. Repeat several times to build strength and confidence.Suitcase Carry: Pick up a heavy item like a gallon of water with one hand. Walk in a straight line, keeping your body upright. Switch hands and repeat.Deadlift: Place an item (like a duffel bag) in front of you. Push your hips back, keeping your back straight, and grab the object. Press through your legs to stand up tall, then lower it back to the ground. Repeat.Bent-Over Row: Hold a gallon of water or similar item. Lean forward slightly with a straight back, and pull the item toward your chest. Lower it down and repeat.Incline Push-Up: Place your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart on a sturdy kitchen counter. Step back until your body forms a straight line. Bend your elbows to lower your chest toward the counter, then push back up. Repeat.Special Considerations for Seniors with Heart ConditionsFor seniors with heart conditions, exercise requires extra care. While cardio is beneficial, it's essential to tailor routines to avoid overexertion or complications. Here are the top considerations:Physician Approval: Always consult a health care provider before starting or changing an exercise routine, especially if you've experienced a heart event.Warm Up and Cool Down: Spend 5 to 10 minutes warming up with gentle movements and end your session with stretches. These strategies will raise and lower your heart rate gradually.Monitor Intensity: Smartwatches and fitness trackers can monitor heart rate to ensure you're exercising within safe limits. Talk to your primary care provider about what heart rate ranges are healthy for you.Listen to Your Body: Stop exercising and seek medical advice if you feel dizzy, short of breath or experience chest discomfort.Stay Active, Stay HealthyCardio exercises are a cornerstone of healthy aging. They improve physical and emotional well-being, help seniors maintain independence and make everyday activities more manageable. By choosing enjoyable and age-appropriate routines, seniors can experience the transformative benefits of regular cardio. Whether it's with a brisk walk, a yoga session or a dance class, the key is to start small and stay consistent. Remember, it's never too late to invest in a healthier, more vibrant future.BrightStar Care Can Support Your Fitness JourneyBrightStar Care caregivers are here to help seniors maintain active, fulfilling lifestyles. From assisting with mobility to creating safe environments for exercise, our compassionate team provides tailored assistance to meet your needs. Whether you're looking for in-home care services or assisted living for your loved one or a reliable medical staffing partner for your organization, our experienced local care team members are ready to help. Find a location near you, contact us online or call (866) 618-7827 to learn more about how BrightStar Care offers A Higher Standard.

You've trimmed your nails a thousand times, but elderly nail care can feel like a whole new situation. As we age, our fingernails and toenails change. That's why manicures and pedicures are done differently for seniors. Let's look at some common nail problems for seniors, everyday nail care tips and the nitty-gritty on how you can safely manage senior nails.Common Nail Problems for the ElderlyHealthy young nails are shiny and smooth, with a pink nail bed and undamaged cuticles. But the International Journal of Women's Dermatology(Opens in a new window) reports that the normal aging process causes nails to become more pale, dull and thick. Nails in seniors tend to grow more slowly, are brittle, can break easily and are hard to cut.Some of the most common issues in elderly nail care are:Fungal Infections: These are the most common nail infections, especially for those who are elderly, smoke or have medical conditions like diabetes or circulation problems.Brittle Nails and Dry Cuticles: This is often caused by how slow elderly nails grow. The nail spends more time exposed to air, water, sanitizers and nail cosmetics that cause damage.Ingrown Toenails(Opens in a new window): This is often caused by poor nail-cutting habits or poor fitting shoes.Nail Care Tips for the ElderlyThe normal nail changes that come with aging mean you'll need to adapt your nail care routine in the following ways:Trim Nails Every 68 Weeks: The American Academy of Dermatology(Opens in a new window) recommends that you keep your nails short, clean and dry. Nails should be cut straight across with a slight round at the edges. Short nails are less likely to break or catch on objects.Get Adequate Nutrition: Nutrition is one of the essential building blocks for strong, healthy nails. The Cleveland Clinic(Opens in a new window) recommends adequate protein, iron and vitamin B to keep nails at their best. Your nutritional needs should be met by eating whole foods, meats, fruits and vegetables. It's important to talk to your doctor if you or your loved one has concerns about proper nutrition.Moisturize: Give your hands and feet a little extra love with a nice moisturizer or hand cream before bed. And don't forget your nails and cuticles. You can help restore moisture lost through aging and frequent washing. Rub the lotion into your fingernails and cuticles. The John Hopkins Center(Opens in a new window) recommends using a lotion on your feet, too, if you have dry skin. But skip the area between your toes, as lotion there can increase your risk of fungal infections.Protect Your Nails: Treat your nails carefully. Don't bite or chew your fingernails or use them as a tool to pry open soda pop tops. Keep your toenails safe with shoes that fit properly and give your toes room to move. Wearing slip-on shoes at the pool can reduce the risk of fungal infections around your toenails.Get Help for Problems: Your nails can provide helpful information about your overall health. If your nails change, swell, separate from the skin, are bleeding or are causing you pain, see your health care provider. This is particularly important if you have diabetes or poor circulation.How to Give an Elderly Person a Manicure or PedicureSo now you may be wondering where to start with a senior manicure or pedicure. It's not that different from cutting your own nailsjust keep a few precautions in mind. Here's the process:Gather Your Equipment: Good, sharp nail cutters will make handling thick nails easier. The AAD recommends a separate nail clipper for fingernails and a toenail clipper for toenails(Opens in a new window). You might want to consider a nail nipper for particularly thick toenails(Opens in a new window). Wash your hands before you start and when you're done. Disinfect your tools by soaking them in 70%90% isopropyl alcohol, then rinse in hot water and allow to air-dry.Soak the Nails: Elderly nails are easiest to cut after they have been soaked. Try cutting nails right after a bath or shower. If this isn't possible, soak hands or feet in warm water for 510 minutes before starting your pedicure.Cut Straight Across But a Little Above the Nail Bed: Trim nails straight across the nail, leaving a little nail above the nail bed. This reduces the chance of ingrown nails or nipping the skin. Start at one side of the nail and make small, straight cuts across the nail.File Them Smooth: Use an emery board or nail file to smooth out any uneven or rough edges. File the nail with small, short strokes, always in the same direction to prevent splintering the nail. Make sure there are no sharp edges that could cause cuts in the skin.Moisturize and Relax: Once all the nails are soaked, cut and filed, apply a soothing hand cream or lotion. Clean up your equipment and sit back with a nice cup of tea together. Giving your loved one a mani-pedi deserves a reward.Make Nail Care a PriorityRegular nail care not only helps us feel better about our appearance, but it also is an important part of staying healthy. Keeping an eye out for common nail problems and taking a few extra steps to keep your loved one's nails in good shape can prevent more serious problems. If you're taking care of a senior and could use some in-home help, speak with a BrightStar Care representative.BrightStar Care can assist with personal care, grooming and bathing in your home. BrightStar Care caregivers are compassionate and qualified home care providers. Whether you're looking for in-home care services or assisted living for your loved one or a reliable medical staffing partner for your organization, our experienced local care team members are ready to help. Find a location near you, contact us online or call (866) 618-7827 to learn more about how BrightStar Care offers A Higher Standard.

Exercise is important. Physically active older adults(Opens in a new window) live longer, healthier lives and experience a better quality of life compared with sedentary seniors. Regular exercise helps the older person you care for  maintain their independence. Theyll be better able to perform daily activities and be less likely to fall. And if they do fall, theyre less likely to be seriously injured.Physical activity helps prevent or at least better manage age-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and osteoporosis. It can improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, anxiety and depression and support cognitive function(Opens in a new window) and emotional well-being.However, arthritis pain and stiffness, balance and stability issues, fear of falling and other issues can make exercise difficult for older people. In addition, muscle strength declines with age. Muscle weakness can make seemingly simple tasks such as walking to the bathroom or just getting out of bed feel overwhelming.Still, the need for exercise remains. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes a week(Opens in a new window) of moderate-intensity physical activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week.But what if your loved one cant stand up safely?What Are the Benefits of Bed Exercises?For older adults with limited mobility, bed exercises offer a practical solution. These are some of the key benefits:Improved Circulation: Even gentle movements can enhance blood flow and reduce the risk of pressure sores.Muscle Strength: Strengthening exercises help prevent muscle atrophy.Flexibility: Stretching and other flexibility exercises can increase the range of motion and reduce stiffness in older adults.Safety: For older adults who are more frail, being able to exercise in bed mitigates the risk of falling.Common Bed Exercises for the ElderlyMost bed exercises are designed to be performed lying down. If your loved one feels able, consider adding light weights or resistance bands to the exercises. Here are some to try with the older person you care for :Gentle StretchesArm Crosses: Have your loved one stand up straight, their feet shoulder width apart. Make sure they keep their back straight and hips facing forward, with their arms stretched horizontally to their sides. They then cross their arms and then bring them out and back as far as they can. Repeat this back and forth motion.Neck Stretches: Have them lie on their back. Keeping their shoulders relaxed, they should rotate their neck toward one shoulder and hold for about 30 seconds. Repeat on the other side.Shoulder Shrugs: Have the person sit on the bed, lift their shoulders, hold and relax. Repeat.Knee-to-Chest Stretch: Have them lie on their back and bring one knee up to their chest, holding for 30 seconds. Then have them return to the starting position and repeat with the other leg.   Palm Stretches: Have your loved one place their palms together in a prayer position. With their palms pressed together, slowly spread their elbows apart. Hold the stretch for 10 to 30 seconds, then repeat.Mobility: Range-of-Motion ExercisesKnee Bends: Have the person lie on their back with legs bent and feet flat on the bed. Have them slide one heel along the bed, straightening the leg as much as possible. Hold for a short time, then return to the starting position and repeat with the other leg.Joint Rotations: Have the person make circles first with their elbows, with their wrists and ankles. Make sure they do several in each direction   .Arm Circles: Have the person lie on their back and extend their arms to the sides at shoulder height. Tell them to make small circular motions with their arms, gradually increasing the size of the circles.Leg Circles: Have them lie on their back with their legs extended, and then tell them to lift one leg slightly off the bed, making circular motions and gradually increasing the size of the circles.   Strengthening Exercises   Isometric Exercises: Have the person contract a muscle without joint movement. For example, they could press their palms together as hard as they can without moving them. Hold for a few seconds and release.Bridge: Have them lie on their back with their knees bent and feet on the mattress, then tell them to squeeze their buttocks and lift their hips. They should hold the position for a few moments, then lower. Repeat.Leg Extensions: Have them lie on their back and bend their knees, putting their feet flat on the bed. Have them stretch one leg and touch the bed with their heel, then return and extend the other leg.Lower Trunk Rotation: Have them lie on their back with knees bent, then slowly bring both knees down to one side. Make sure they hold, then return to the original position and repeat on the other side.Supine Leg Marches: Have them lie on their back with their knees bent and feet on the mattress. Tell them to lift one knee toward their chest about one or two inches, then relax the leg. Repeat with the other leg.Arm Raises: Keeping their elbow bent at 90 degrees and core engaged, have your loved one exhale and slowly lift their arms up and out to the sides, stopping just before their elbows reach shoulder height. At the top of the movement, their palms should be facing the floor. Inhale and lower the weight (or empty-handed) with control back to the starting position.Hand Exercises: Have them squeeze a soft ball firmly for about 15 seconds. Release. Repeat 10 to 15 times.    Balance ExercisesMost balance exercises require standing, but heres one that can be done from the bed:Sit and Stand: Have your loved one sit on the bed and then stand up. Then have them sit back down and repeat. If they are frail or have difficulty standing, consult your health care professional. You may want to skip this one.Dead Bug: Have them start by laying flat on their back with their arms and legs elevated. Next, release one leg down. Simultaneously release the opposite arm down while holding the non-exercised arm and leg in position. Have them return to the starting position and exercise the opposite arm and leg.Considerations for Doing Bed Exercises With Specific Health ConditionsYour physician or physical therapist can provide exercises tailored to the older persons particular needs, but here are some things to keep in mind:Arthritis: Gentle stretches and range-of-motion exercises can alleviate arthritis stiffness and pain.Dementia: Consider guiding them through repetitive exercises that are easy to follow.Stroke: Targeted exercises for affected limbs may improve mobility and strength.Surgical Recovery: Talk to your health care team about exercises that support recovery without straining surgical sites.Helping Seniors Perform Bed Exercises SafelyIdeally, a physical therapist or other health care professional will demonstrate the exercises to you or the older person. If not, ask for videos and diagrams.Here are some suggestions for ensuring safety:Monitor Alignment and Mechanics: Help the person maintain proper body position during exercises. Consider using pillows to support their neck or other body parts as needed.Begin Slowly: Start with gentle movements, such as simple stretches. Gradually increase intensity.Dont Overdo It: Encourage the person to listen to their body. That means stopping when they feel pain and resting when theyre tired. Ask them to tell you about any discomfort or fatigue.Create a Routine for Senior Bed ExercisesThe key to increased mobility and other positive effects of exercising is to get in the habit. It starts with setting achievable goals. Write down those goals and put them where you and the older person will notice them daily. The goals could range from minutes of exercise each day to being able to walk to get the mail or attend a grandchilds wedding.Set a regular time each day for exercise and try to stick to it. This helps build an exercise habit. Start slowly and gradually build a consistent exercise regimen. Review the safety tips above, and try to keep it interesting by adding new exercises to the schedule or setting the movements to music. Tips for Caregivers When Helping Seniors Do Bed ExercisesThere are many ways to help support someone in starting a bed-exercise regimen, but it begins with checking with health care professionals to make sure the exercises are safe and appropriate.A physical therapist can customize routines and demonstrate proper techniques to prevent injuries. Schedule regular check-ups so you can make any necessary adjustments perhaps moving from bed exercises to something more vigorous.Once youre on your way, here are some ways to make it a positive experience:Be Supportive: Simply being present and demonstrating empathy can make a big difference.Be Patient: The person you care for may become frustrated and lose either their interest or their temper. Dont lose yours. Remind them that everyone faces setbacks.Celebrate Success: Exercising for any number of days in a row is reason enough for a celebration. So is achieving increased intensity and duration with exercises. Just be careful not to patronize or fall into using elderspeak.Keep It Safe: Be vigilant in watching for signs of pain, dizziness or excessive fatigue.Adjust the Exercises: Log the persons progress and make changes as needed.Putting together the right exercise routine for an elderly person may take time. By building a support system and engaging the person you care for on a regular basis, you can make it work.BrightStar Care Supports Senior Exercise RoutinesBrightStar Care caregivers are creative, dedicated, supportive and careful when it comes to supporting a bed exercise routine for seniors. Whether you're looking for in-home care services or assisted living for your loved one or a reliable medical staffing partner for your organization, our experienced local care team members are ready to help. Find a location near you, contact us online or call (866) 618-7827 to learn more about how BrightStar Care offers A Higher Standard.