Since your retirement, you’ve noticed you’re not as active as you once were. You tend to watch more television or sit in front of your computer longer.
You’re even snacking more often than usual. Your clothes fit snugly. Your joints are starting to ache more than usual.
Your sedentary lifestyle has started to impact you.
While it’s easy to dismiss a few pounds gained, it’s better to address the situation sooner than later. Encouraging yourself to exercise now will minimize your health issues as you age.
One of the key benefits of exercising is preventing injuries from occurring. Exercise will improve your strength, flexibility, and balance. It may even help you sleep better.
But the main reason you should encourage yourself to exercise is to continue living independently as long as possible. That reason alone should ignite your motivation.
It’s easy to postpone starting in the winter because it’s too cold outside to go for a walk. But take action now and look for indoor options.
There are programs specifically geared for seniors. These programs are also mindful if you have physical limitations such as arthritis, bad knee, or stiff joints.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you may have access to SilverSneakers®, a health and fitness program designed for the 65 and over population. Another option is to look for a Senior Center near your home. Just type “senior center near me” in a search engine.
These programs offer exercise options beyond the typical gym. Some will offer tai chi, chair yoga, water aerobics, and many other options that make exercising fun.
Because these programs are geared for the 65+ population, their instructors are aware of many senior issues, including dementia. It’s also a way to meet other seniors similar to you.
Help yourself age gracefully by staying active so you can continue to live independently and have fewer visits to the doctor. Make exercise fun by finding activities beyond walking outside or going to a gym. Look for programs geared for seniors. When you stay active, it’ll delay your need for a caregiver.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, CRPC®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing spending plans, comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”