Physical Fitness in Old Age

As said ‘a healthy mind has healthy soul’, so one must keep the mind healthy. For this you have to be healthy in all respects. One should keep exercising to stay fit no matter what is the age. Studies have shown that the body responds to the exercise done at any age.

The decline in physical heath in older age is due to reduced muscle strength, reduction in co-ordination and balance, decreased bone strength, increased fat levels and high levels of blood pressure and increased risk of having diseases. Some old people also suffer from depression or anxiety problems.

It is a common myth that old people do not need much of exercises as they become weak with the age and many such things. But this is not the fact; one has to do something to keep them fit and fine. Only reading and doing sitting jobs is not helpful.

Bone density declines after the age of 40. But by doing exercise you can reduce the risk of having bone loss, fractures and the main thing osteoporosis. One should also keep weight under control so that the legs, knees and foot are relaxed and not overburdened.

A healthy, fiber rich diet should be taken by avoiding oily and fatty foods. Regular morning and evening walks can keep your weight under constant control.

Cardio exercises help in regulating the heartbeat and in return makes your heart healthy. The fitness through cardio activities is achieved later in older people but gives the same benefits as in young.

Old people should do regular yoga and meditation. Meditation help to keep the mind and body relaxed. Different asanas of yoga are also beneficial for various diseases and also keep one healthy. Stretching exercises should be done for keeping joints healthy and free from arthritis.

If one is fit in old age, there would be less complications and the mind would be free of all those stupid tensions.