There is a common misconception that we become more fragile and less functional as we age, when in reality this is because we stop doing all the things that make us strong and functional for many reasons. These reasons can include but are not limited to an injury; fear of injuring ourselves; the perception of being too busy; too much stress; cost of a gym; feeling self-conscious or simply because we believe we’ve past our prime years and can relax now. Any of this sound familiar?

Healthy ageing refers to the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables wellbeing in older age. Essentially, can you look after yourself independently and safely?

Some Questions to ask yourself

Some questions to ask yourself:
– Can I stand up out of a chair without using my hands?
– Can I get myself on and off the ground?
– Can I climb up a flight of stairs comfortably?
– Can I do my normal everyday activities independently? E.g. get dressed, cook, hang the clothes out on the line.

Were any of your answers no?

If you answered no to any of those questions, you might need to have a think about how you’re going to live independently in the future.
Exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, reducing stress, and looking after your mental health have all been shown to help with healthy ageing.

The Effect of Exercise on the Ageing Process

Research shows that exercise has an extremely positive effect on the body and can reduce the risk of many conditions as well as our falls and injury risk. This is no different as we age. Aerobic exercise helps to keep our heart strong, reduce blood pressure, manage blood sugar levels, reduce memory loss, and much more. Strength and flexibility training helps to maintain your strength and mobility so you can continue to move around freely, while balance exercises help to reduce your risk of falling.

So what exercise is the best?

The best exercise you can pick is the one that you enjoy the most!
Sure, I could list the perfect exercise regime to follow, but if you’re not interested, what’s the point? Let’s be honest…. you’re not going to stick to it and then you won’t get any benefits. So, pick something you enjoy. Pick something you can make fun with your family or friends. A Sunday morning stroll to the local coffee shop with a friend for a mental health chat and sip? Fun! A bike ride with your granddaughter to woolies to get milk? What a great idea!

Quick tips to incorporate healthy habits into your day

To avoid the all too popular “I’m too busy” or ‘I can’t be bothered’ here are some simple ways that you can incorporate some healthy habits into your day without needing much time or effort:

  • Practicing your balance while waiting for the kettle to boil
  • Using a sit-to-stand desk at work
  • Park a little further away from work to get those extra steps in
  • Add some more veggies into your meals

Long story short

Every bit counts and if you can incorporate some of these suggestions into your day you will be much better off now and later in life!
And remember, if you’re still unsure, reach out and we’ll be more than happy to help!