Conley Publishing - Special Sections
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Regular exercise and a nutri- tious diet are two of the best things seniors can do to main- tain their health. Exercise can delay or prevent many of the health problems associated with aging, including weak bones and feelings of fatigue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says a person age 65 or older who is generally fit with no limiting health conditions should try to get two hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, while also including weight training and muscle-strengthening activi- ties in their routines on two or more days a week. Individuals often find that gyms have the array of fitness equipment they need to stay healthy. But many people, including older men and women who have not exercised in some time, may be hesitant to join a gym for fear of intimi- dation. Some seniors may avoid machines and classes believing they will not use the apparatus properly, or that they will be judged by other gym members. Some seniors may feel like gyms do not cater to their older clientele, creating an atmosphere that is dominat- ed by younger members and loud music. Such misconceptions are often unfounded, as many gyms welcome older members with open arms. But even if seniors find gyms intimidat- ing, they should still sign up for memberships. In such situ- ations, the following tips can help seniors shed their fears and adapt to their new gyms. • Start the process slowly. Shop around for a gym that makes you feel comfortable. Get fully informed about which classes are offered, and the benefits, if any, afforded to older members. • Get a doctor's go-ahead. Make sure to clear exercise and gym membership with your doctor prior to purchasing a membership. He or she also may have a list of gyms where fellow senior patients have memberships. • Build up gradually. Begin with exercises you feel com- fortable performing. Spend time walking on the treadmill while observing other gym members. Tour the circuit of machines and other equip- ment. Find out if you can sample a class to see if it might be a good fit. • Find a gym buddy. Working out with a partner in your age group may encourage you to keep going to the gym and increase your comfort level. You each can offer sup- port and enjoy a good laugh through the learning process. • Don't get discouraged. Anyone working out for the first time, regardless of age, will feel somewhat out of place until exercise becomes part of a routine. Give it some time before throwing in the towel. Once you catch on, you may discover you enjoy working out. • Choose a senior-friendly gym. Some gyms cater to senior members. They may offer "SilverSneakers" classes at their facility. Other niche gyms may only accept members of a certain age group. Investigate these gyms if working out with a younger crowd is proving too great a deterrent. Fitness is important for healthy seniors. It can prolong life, help seniors maintain healthy weights and reduce their risk of injury. HEALTH & WELLNESS DIRECTORY / SPRING 2017 13 RETINA & VITREOUS CONSULTANTS OF WISCONSIN LTD Practice limited to Medical & Surgical Treatment of the Retina & Vitreous For an Appointment Please Call 262-524-9323 • 1-800-837-3937 www.rvcow.com Jonathan M. Hershey, M.D. Sharath C. Raja, M.D. Nicholas H. Tosi, M.D. Patrick P. Sassani, M.D. Mayfair - North Tower 2600 N. Mayfair Rd., Ste. 901 Milwaukee, WI 53226 (414) 774-3484 St. Luke's Physician Office Bldg. 2801 W. Kinnickinnic River Pkwy., Ste. 350 Milwaukee, WI (414) 649-4660 Aurora Health Center - Kenosha 6815 118th Avenue Kenosha, WI 53142 (262) 857-5650 Seton Professional Building - Ozaukee 13133 N. Port Washington Rd., Ste. 120 Mequon, WI 53097 (262) 240-0457 Moreland Medical Center 1111 Delafield St., Suite 227 Waukesha, WI 53188 (262) 524-9323 • Macular Degeneration • Diabetic Eye Disease • Macular Hole • Retinal Detachment • Ocular Trauma • Vitreous Bleeding 254614001 Older adults can overcome gym intimidation According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity is one of the most important things older adults can do to promote their long- term health. The CDC recommends that men and women age 65 or older who are generally fit and have no limiting health conditions need at least two hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, each week. In addition, such people should perform strength-training activities that work all major muscle groups at least two days per week. While many fit older men and women with no preexisting health conditions are capable of these activities, those able to push themselves a little further can opt for 75 minutes per week of vigorous- intensity aerobic activity, such as jogging or running, combined with the same strength-training regimen. A combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity coupled with strength training may also provide adequate physical activity for aging men and women. Before beginning a new exercise regimen, men and women should consult with their physicians to discuss any limita- tions they may have and how to manage those risks while still being physically active. Did you know?