6 Heart Healthy Activities for Seniors They Will Love
As we grow older, it becomes increasingly important to take care of our heart health. For seniors, staying active is crucial for maintaining wellness and mobility.
Below are 6 heart healthy exercises seniors can enjoy at Porters Neck Village and outside the community.
Heart Healthy Exercises and Activities
Walking Groups
Walking is a low-impact exercise that is perfect for improving heart health in seniors. Adults can walk at any pace they choose and easily modify both the pace and distance to fit their individual physical capabilities.
Joining a walking group is also a great way for active seniors to socialize and improve their quality of life. At Porters Neck Village, it’s easy to find friends and neighbors in the community who’ll enjoy brisk (or leisurely) walks with the goal of staying fit. Enjoy the fresh air with our 3 miles of outdoors walking paths and trails.
Tai Chi and Yoga
Yoga and Tai Chi are gentle forms of exercise that can improve flexibility, balance, and strength. They have also been shown to reduce stress and improve overall health.
At Porters Neck Village, residents can enjoy Tai Chi classes to maintain their physical health. We also offer balance classes to improve your gait and prevent falls. If you’re unable to attend a class, there are also many online resources for seniors to practice yoga and Tai Chi at home. Older adults may also choose to venture outdoors to exercise with friends and neighbors.
Swimming
Swimming is a great low-impact exercise that is gentle on the joints. Swimming can also improve cardiovascular health and muscle strength. At Porters Neck Village, seniors enjoy access to a beautiful saltwater pool. Residents can swim laps, participate in water aerobics, or practice water walking – all helping to improve their endurance and heart health and maintain their physical health.
Gardening
Gardening is a great way for seniors to stay active while also enjoying the outdoors. It can improve strength, flexibility, and mental well-being. If a person has limited mobility, they can apply their green thumb to container gardening or raised beds.
Gardening can also be a wonderful social activity when individuals participate in a community garden or join a gardening club. Porters Neck Village has a dedicated garden and Garden Club, where residents grow flowers as well as vegetables and herbs used by our Executive Chef for meals.
Weight Lifting
Weight lifting offers numerous heart health benefits for seniors. Regular weight lifting sessions can improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, weight lifting can increase muscle mass and help people maintain a healthy weight by burning calories.
By adding weight lifting to their exercise routines, seniors can enhance their heart health and improve overall strength. At Porters Neck Village, we offer residents state-of-the-art gym equipment to effortlessly prioritize their physical health.
Volunteer Work
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, and it can also improve heart health. Studies have shown that volunteering can reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Seniors can find volunteer opportunities at local organizations, schools, or hospitals. Volunteering is also a great way to socialize and make new friends.
Porters Neck Village residents frequently volunteer in our community library and take part in our neighbor-to-neighbor transportation program. Residents also enjoy volunteering in the larger Wilmington community at thrift stores and as tutors and buddies for local children.
Embrace Senior Wellness Activities at Porters Neck Village
By embracing heart-healthy activities, seniors can maintain their vitality and reduce health problems of all types. Remember to always consult a doctor before starting any new exercise routine or activity, and listen to your body to avoid injury.
At Porters Neck Village, we believe that with a little effort, seniors can enjoy an active lifestyle that is supported by a healthy heart. We offer numerous community events, exercise classes, and other wellness services to help residents take care of themselves. Learn more about our senior living community when you contact us today!
