Indoor Walking for Seniors in Frisco Independent and Assisted Living
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Indoor walking is a safe way to get low-impact senior fitness in your life, and it can help with balance and mobility. All you need are simple routines, safety precautions, and consistent practice to see both physical and mental health benefits that can help maintain independence for older adults.
The CDC states that only about 1 in 4 adults fully meet physical activity guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercises. So chances are, you're a couch potato, especially now that you're in your golden years.
This can have bad effects in your later years, so don't let that happen. You deserve to have a fantastic retirement, so be proactive about your health.
One way to do this is through indoor walking. Keep reading to see how you can start Frisco, TX senior wellness and improve your quality of life.
Is Walking Indoors Effective?
Yes, indoor walking is an effective way for seniors to stay active. You may think that outdoor walking is the only way to go, as it has more varied scenery and fresh air, but you need to reframe your thinking.
The fact is that when you're walking indoors, you're still moving your muscles and getting your heart rate up. So it's just as legitimate as anything else regarding wellness activities for older adults.
How Do You Do Indoor Walking?
Indoor walking doesn't necessarily mean you need a treadmill, although it can be helpful. Actually, you don't need any special equipment at all; just a pair of comfortable shoes and a safe walking space is all you need!
To get into indoor walking routines for older adults, it's really up to you to adapt based on space and preferences. Here are some examples of ways to do indoor walking:
- Walk laps around the house
- March in place
- Walk in malls or community centers
- Follow indoor walking videos
Benefits of Indoor Walking for Seniors
Sure, indoor walking gets you off the couch and starts you on the path of exercise. But there are many other benefits you can get as a senior.
For example, you'll enjoy mobility support. You'll strengthen muscles used for standing up, sitting down, and climbing stairs. This also reduces your fall risk.
In addition, you'll get:
- Better circulation
- Weight and blood sugar control
- Mental health boost
As you can see, adding this simple routine to your life can have significant and holistic benefits for your health.
Safety Tips for Indoor Walking
Walking inside is already naturally much safer than walking outside. However, you still need to follow some memory care mobility tips to ensure that you're as safe and secure as possible.
Make sure you follow these tips:
- Clear the pathway
- Use support if needed
- Start slow
- Wear proper footwear
- Stay hydrated
If you live in a pet-friendly apartment, then not only should you put away your companion's items, but also your pet itself. They may be enthusiastic about joining you, but they're a mobile tripping hazard, and both of you can get hurt.
Most importantly, listen to your body. If you feel any of the following, stop immediately, rest, and don't start again until you feel completely better:
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Unusual discomfort
How to Stay Motivated With Indoor Walking
No matter what age you are, keeping up with an exercise routine can be extremely challenging. But the key to staying healthy is building consistency.
If you need some indoor movement support, here are ways you can stay engaged and motivated:
- Set goals, but start with small and achievable ones
- Track your progress with a simple step counter or walking log
- Mix it up with different routes
- Make it social by walking with others
- Pair it with entertainment (e.g., music, podcasts, audiobooks)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the 28-Day Indoor Walking Challenge Really Work?
Yes, this challenge really works since it's structured, meaning that it helps seniors build consistency and increase endurance. If you manage to follow the daily walking goals, then by the end of the challenge, you'll see:
- Improved stamina
- Better mood
- Greater confidence in mobility
How Many Steps Should Seniors Aim for Indoors?
According to MedicalNewsToday, most adults should aim for 8,000-10,000 steps per day for general fitness. However, older adults can already benefit from just 6,000-8,000 steps per day.
Is Indoor Walking Good for Arthritis?
Yes, indoor walking is good for arthritis since it's considered a low-impact activity. Not only is it gentle on the joints, but it also keeps them flexible.
If you have arthritis and want to walk indoors, then you should start with short sessions and wear supportive shoes.
Can Indoor Walking Help With Sleep?
Yes, since regular walking will improve circulation and reduce stress. As a result, this can help you fall asleep faster, and you'll enjoy deeper rest too.
Do note that you should avoid walking too close to bedtime, especially if you typically feel energized after exercising.
How Long Should a Senior Walk Indoors Each Day?
Seniors should aim to walk 30 minutes a day. But even 20-30 minutes daily can provide significant benefits.
If you find it difficult to do in one go, then you can break it up into shorter sessions. For example, you can do three 10-minute walks throughout the day.
Is Indoor Walking Safe for Seniors With Balance Issues?
It can be, but you need to take proper precautions. You should walk in well-lit, clutter-free spaces. In addition, consider walking near walls and railings for support if needed.
If you're using a treadmill, get one with safety handles.
Get Fit With Indoor Walking
"Fitness" doesn't automatically mean "intense workouts at the gym." In fact, for older adults, it can be as simple as indoor walking in their own homes.
Because you don't need special equipment and aren't dependent on the outside weather and conditions, it's much easier to stay consistent with an exercise routine. So get started today, and you'll realize that you should've done this a long time ago!
Get in touch with us now to learn more about senior living in Frisco, TX. Parkview in Frisco has restaurant-style dining with à la carte options, so residents are spoiled for choice regarding meals.