Whether you live at home or in a retirement community, we all tend to slow down when the chilly weather moves in for the winter. For seniors, staying active – at any level – is one of life’s best secrets. As many active adults say, “move it or lose it” applies.
For seniors living at home, staying active might present challenges as the effort to navigate the snow and ice – and fear of falling – is very real, and developing a home exercise program can feel daunting. It might be easier for those living in a retirement community as most offer a wide range of activities, including wellness programs. At Arbor View Senior Living, our wellness team spends extra time in the winter developing programs and activities for our residents that encourage ongoing movement to help enhance flexibility, prevent falls, and boost mental and physical health.
No matter where you live, here are seven great, safe, and enjoyable options to keep moving:
1. Indoor Exercise Classes
- Yoga, Tai Chi, or Pilates: These gentle exercises improve flexibility, balance, and strength. Many community centers offer senior-friendly classes, and online options are widely available as well. Our senior living community has several regular wellness program options and dedicated space for developing an exercise routine to keep the blood pumping and add to overall wellness.
- Indoor Walking Groups: Malls often have dedicated hours for walkers, which is a great option for a flat, climate-controlled environment. And if you live in a retirement community, walking the halls is a great alternative.
- Dance Classes: Low-impact dance, like ballroom or line dancing, can be a fun, social way to stay active.
2. Home-Based Workouts
- Exercise DVDs or Online Videos: There are many routines specifically designed for seniors, from seated exercises to standing routines.
- Resistance Bands and Light Weights: Small, portable equipment like resistance bands or light dumbbells can enhance strength training routines at home.
3. Swimming and Water Aerobics
- Indoor pools provide a warm, accessible way for seniors to exercise without stressing their joints. Many pools offer water aerobics classes that are gentle yet effective for fitness. While we do not have an onsite pool, the nearby Arvada Aquatics Center offers a great venue and we can support residents with transportation.
4. Join a Gym or Fitness Center
- Many gyms have low-cost or insurance-subsidized memberships for seniors, providing access to treadmills, stationary bikes, and light resistance machines. Some fitness centers also offer senior-specific classes and wellness programs. Our therapy and fitness spaces also offer great views of the Foothills as a bonus while working out.
5. Balance and Strength Training
- Simple home routines focusing on balance exercises can be beneficial in reducing fall risk. Common options include standing on one leg, heel-to-toe walking, and gentle stretching routines. Study after study indicates that weight training, even light weights, can help bone density significantly.
6. Bundle Up and Go Outdoors When Possible
- If it’s not icy, outdoor walks can still be an option. Dress in layers, wear appropriate footwear and choose a safe, flat area. Consider walking with poles for extra stability. Arbor View’s 13-acre campus offers easy access to walking paths in a quiet, neighborhood setting.
7. Stay Social with Virtual Fitness Groups
- Staying motivated can be easier with friends. Virtual fitness groups let seniors connect, set fitness goals, and exercise together via video chat, creating an interactive experience even from home.
Encouraging a mix of social and solo activities can keep winter fitness fun and manageable, boosting both physical health and overall well-being.
Arbor View Senior Living, located in Arvada, Colorado offers independent living, assisted living, and respite care services. The community encourages seniors, whether they live at home or in a retirement community, to maintain a good level of physical activity during the winter, for both mental and physical wellness. For more information about Arbor View Senior Living, visit arborviewsl.com or give us a call at 303-268-4747.
