U.S. Senate Majority Leader Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV) (C) speaks to members of the media after the Senate Democratic Policy Luncheon at the Capitol December 9, 2014 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. ; Credit: Alex Wong/Getty Images
With the New Year comes New Year’s resolutions, and for many people, New Year’s resolutions are a reason to get back into a workout routine. But what about elderly adults who want to stay in shape? There are often many questions surrounding best fitness practices for seniors. There is a delicate line to toe between exercising regularly enough to protect from disease and lower injury chances and not over-extending oneself to the point where injury occurs. But studies show that regular exercise is important to the physical and mental health of the elderly, and that inactivity can lead to more doctor and hospital visits. In fact, it’s probably one of the best things seniors can do to delay the aging process.
Recently, former Senate majority leader Harry Reid suffered broken ribs and bones in his face after a resistance band snapped and hit him in the eye, causing him to stumble backward and fall into some cabinets. Reid has yet to return to the Senate, and has said that his doctors are not sure whether he will regain full sight in his right eye.
How can seniors stay safe while exercising? What are the limits and the cautions the elderly need to be aware of? Is it even safe for seniors to exercise in the first place?
For tips on safe exercise for seniors, you can check out this guide from the National Institutes on Aging that was recommended by our guests.
Guests:
Dr. Laura Mosqueda, Professor of Family Medicine and Geriatrics and Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at USC’s Keck School of Medicine
Lori Michiel, certified senior fitness specialist and personal trainer, President and Founder of Lori Michiel Fitness. She specializes in and has been working with clients age 50-95 for more than 40 years.