Exercise Program

Residents of The Nottingham feel that one of their secrets to Aging Gracefully is to incorporate exercise into their regular routine.  If you were to look at The Nottingham’s weekly Telegraph which outlines our calendar of events you would notice that our residents have plenty of physical activities to choose from.  During an ordinary week, our residents spend a lot of time in our beautiful indoor pool. They enjoy lap swimming or spend some free time in the warm water during our open swim. We also have an Arthritis Swim class that meets three times a week.  Stretch and Tone is a very popular program that our residents enjoy on a daily basis.  Chi-Kung is taught on Tuesdays and Thursdays by David Dolbear.   Nottingham residents are also fortunate to work with Dr. Dale Avers with University Hospital for our Balance and Falls class. 
 
To support our resident’s claims regarding the importance of physical activity I went to the internet to learn more.  Finding supportive documentation was not difficult to do.  I found a web site that is a collaborative effort developed by the National Institute of Aging and the National Library of Medicine.  This site is called NIH Senior Health; I would encourage visiting this informative site by clicking onto www.nihseniorhealth.gov
 
This site was very helpful in learning more about many issues facing older adults.  I was especially interested to learn more about how exercise can promote a healthier lifestyle for older adults.  This site was very clear stating that you are never too old to begin an exercise program!  Certainly it is always smart to consult your doctor before beginning a new exercise program; in most cases your doctor will support your desire to increase your physical activity.  As evidence supports that by staying physically active and exercising regularly can help prevent or delay many diseases and disabilities.
 
Older adults should not be afraid to begin a moderate exercise program due to concern about strain or discomfort.  Studies confirm that exercise is safe for all age groups, and evidence supports that inactivity can cause more health related programs.
 
The site discussed four focus areas that confirm how exercise can benefit anyone’s daily lifestyle.  These focus areas include;

1. Exercise improves STRENGTH
2. Exercise improves BALANCE
3. Exercise improves FLEXIBILITY
4. Exercise improves ENDURANCE
 
Every older adult should spend time working to develop and maintain these four areas of focus to ensure maximum mobility and safety throughout their aging process.  Any type of degeneration in one or more of these focus areas could effect one’s quality of life.   Think how dangerous a trip to the grocery store would be if you experienced a loss in any one of these areas.  How could you carry your bags?  How would you be able to walk safely in the isles?  How could you reach the upper shelves?  How could you endure the long walk?
 
Start today!  Please visit the NIH Senior Health Web site and learn more about how incorporating exercise into your routine can promote a healthier and happier quality of life.