Getting regular exercise is essential for every stage of your life, but this is especially true for older adults. Keeping physically active provides you with a special set of benefits for your cardiovascular and mental health. It also improves mobility and reduces your risk of injuries. Despite all these benefits, you may not be as active as you would like to be. This could be due to physical problems such as creaking joints or body aches and pains. You might even be recovering from an injury or illness which might affect your strength. Swimming is a great way to exercise and engage all muscle groups without overexerting. Read on to learn more about how swimming benefits you!
Cardiovascular Impact
One of the main health benefits of swimming is the impact on the health of the heart of older adults. Moderate activity helps to move your blood, which will keep your cardiovascular system strong and improve your heart’s strength over the years.
Brain Strength
Increased blood flow throughout the body is good for your brain health as well. Better blood flow will mean that more oxygen will be able to reach the brain which helps to improve your brainpower. The higher your blood oxygen level, the better your cognitive function will be.
Safer Movement
Keeping your flexibility and strength is another important benefit of swimming. Having toned muscles will support better balance in older adults which will allow for safer movements and improved posture. When you move against the water’s natural resistance, you build muscle strength and tone. This will help prevent injuries resulting from accidents such as falls.
Pain Management
Muscles that are not used regularly will deteriorate faster. This can impact your range of motion on particular limbs and joints. Swimming regularly helps you to gently stretch your muscles and not strain them. This can improve flexibility which can reduce pain and stiffness in your body.
Mental Boost
Physical movement isn’t just for the physical health benefits. Exercise will help to release the feel-good chemicals in your brain which will boost your mood. Swimming will improve your mood and mental state. Even though you can swim alone, many older adults enjoy swimming with their family members or friends. This gives them the chance to socialize with their loved ones while exercising.
Experience Discovery Village At Melbourne
Discovery Village At Melbourne is a world-class senior living community. Our community offers three different options for you to choose from: independent living, assisted living, and SHINE® memory care. You can enjoy your dream lifestyle with the excellent amenities in our resort-style community. Our dedicated team of health and wellness professionals will help to develop a personalized care plan specific to your needs. Here, you get to have delicious gourmet meals every day and enjoy fun activities that will keep you healthy and active.
After reading about how swimming benefits older adults, you might want to stay in a senior living community where you can lead a healthy and active lifestyle. Feel free to contact us today for more information.
