When seniors decide that they need to move a little more, they might feel at a loss for what to try. Taking up running might feel excessive, especially when what they really want is to move more, improve balance, and feel better. There might also be a social component to moving more, and the answer could be as simple as taking up yoga. Companion care at home can also help with starting a yoga practice at home or in a class setting.
Yoga Is Gentle
One of the best reasons for seniors to take up yoga is that it’s a gentle form of movement. There is nothing high impact about yoga at all. Instead it involves gentle stretches that allow seniors to start where they are and progress as they’re able to do so. The movements are highly adaptable, especially when using tools like blocks, pillows, and straps.
Yoga Offers Tremendous Health Benefits
There are some big health benefits from trying out yoga. Seniors may find that they improve muscle strength, especially around their joints. This can help them avoid falls and injuries, especially as their balance improves. Because core strength is a big part of yoga, over time seniors may discover that they have less back pain and they feel more flexible overall. Muscle stiffness may be easier to overcome with a few yoga stretches, too.
Practicing Yoga Has Other Benefits, Too
Beyond the health benefits, seniors may find that their brains enjoy yoga. They may find it easier to concentrate, for example, or that their memory works better. Mental health concerns, like anxiety and depression, may also improve after trying yoga for a while. Improving their bodies can help aging adults feel more confident, which is something that can be an issue as seniors age in place at home. Daily activities may be more difficult, for instance. Home care providers can offer assistance, but finding ways to feel confident again does a lot for improving quality of life.
Classes Offer Social Interaction
Another big benefit is that going to classes in person can offer a social connection that seniors could be missing. Spending time with other people and learning to do the same things builds camaraderie and seniors may get to know the people they’re in class with over time. This is especially important for seniors who feel lonely or isolated at home.
Yoga at Home Can Also Be Social
Even if seniors can’t get to a class, there are other ways to make yoga a social activity. Companion care at home is a perfect answer to any social needs for seniors, because companion caregivers are there to talk with seniors and engage in activities with them. Helping seniors find yoga videos at home and then doing a few stretches with them is a great way to spend an afternoon and help seniors feel less alone.
There are lots of great reasons for seniors to try adding yoga to their routines. If they decide it’s not for them, though, there might be other activities they’re willing to try with the help of companion care at home. Gentle walking can offer similar benefits, and is easy to do with a companion.
If you or an aging loved one are considering companion care at home in Woodbury, MN and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.
