Are Pilates Exercises a Good Choice for Seniors?

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Pilates Exercises for Older Adults in Tampa Bay, FL

To stay healthy, older adults are advised to get a minimum of 150 minutes of exercise each week. For some, weight-bearing exercise might be forbidden. In this case, they might consider taking a Pilates class. Many Pilates exercises are performed while sitting or lying on a mat. The techniques focus on breathing, control, centering, flow, and precision and offer a wide variety of benefits.

Builds Stronger Bones

Seniors are advised to engage in strength training to build bone density and mass. Pilates offers benefits similar to weight lifting. However, the pressure applied to the bones is gentler than with conventional strength training. By building stronger bones, older adults are less likely to experience osteoporosis and fractures. 

If you’re creating an exercise plan for your loved one, make sure to consider your schedule if he or she will need help exercising safely. Some seniors need occasional assistance at home, and oftentimes the family members who take care of them need time away to run errands, take a nap, go to work, or take a vacation. Clearwater respite care experts from Home Care Assistance are available on an as-needed basis, giving your family peace of mind that your loved one will remain safe and comfortable while you relax or focus on other important responsibilities.

Strengthens the Core Muscles

Pilates exercise routines are designed to target the core muscles and gradually work outward to the extremities. The core involves the abdominal and back muscles, which play a vital role in body movement. As seniors strengthen core muscles, they’re less likely to experience discomfort and pain. A strong core also keeps the body balanced and reduces the risk of falls. Pilates exercises train seniors to control their muscles and joints through small range-of-motion movements. As strength increases, range-of-motion movements become larger. 

Even if seniors have mobility issues or health challenges, they can still get the benefits of exercise, especially with the help of a trained professional caregiver. Clearwater in-home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.

Enhances Mobility

Seniors with stiff or weakened joints and muscles may find it difficult to move, let alone maintain their balance. Pilates addresses these issues. The techniques are often used as therapy for stroke survivors to help them regain control of their arms and legs. Older adults who continue engaging in Pilates may experience vast enhancements in joint, muscle, and balance abilities, which makes it easier to stand, walk, and use their limbs effectively and with less difficulty.

Provides Opportunities for Socialization

While taking a Pilates class, seniors meet like-minded peers who are also interested in boosting their overall health. Classes enable older adults to make new friends. The atmosphere in the classes is relaxed and friendly. Whether seniors are beginners or have Pilates experience, all have a common goal. Making friends with classmates also increases the chance seniors will continue attending, which is of great physical benefit.

Boosts Energy

The more frequently older adults engage in physical exercise, the more energy they have. Blood circulation increases, and the body produces more endorphins and other hormones that reduce pain while providing an energy boost.

Encourages Weight Control

Pilates exercises are known to produce long, strong muscles and an overall leaner appearance. As long as older adults aren’t consuming more calories than their bodies use, they can lose excess pounds and maintain a healthy weight.

If your loved one has health conditions or mobility limitations that make exercising alone a challenge, help is available. Clearwater Home Care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Home Care Assistance. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at (727) 330-7862 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.

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