5 good ways for seniors to stay active this winter.
As cold and snowy weather arrives, the reality is that some outdoor activities can become more challenging for seniors. However, there are also some great alternatives to consider. Even in winter, it is still as important as ever to keep moving on a regular basis. Particularly considering the many benefits of physical exercise at any age, both for the body and the mind. So no matter the reason, remaining active during the winter season is important. As suggestions, here are 5 interesting activities for seniors to stay active during the upcoming winter months.
1. Enjoy organized group activities
Regardless of the season, seniors have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of organized activities. For those living in seniors’ residences, a great advantage is that such activities are usually offered directly on site. Indeed, seniors’ housing communities attach great importance to ensuring that their residents have access to fun and easily accessible activities. Allowing them to stay healthy and to socialize at the same time.
Those indoor group winter activities can take different forms :
- Dance classes ;
- Yoga ;
- Tai Chi ;
- Bowling ;
- Workout ;
- Gymnastics classes adapted to the elderly ;
- Access to pool tables to play with friends;
- etc.
For seniors living at home, there are also many alternatives to remain in good physical shape. Indeed, many local municipalities and organizations offer a wide range of activities for the elderly population. Various community classes are available to everyone : fitness classes, zumba, yoga, dancing, and much more. Options are diverse so there’s something interesting for every senior.
So, whether you live in a retirement home or still live at home, organized group activities provide a good way for a senior to stay active in winter.
2. Go for a swim in an indoor pool
Another great way to stay active this winter is to enjoy indoor pools. Benefits of swimming activities for seniors are well known. It is indeed an effective exercise for both muscle tone and cardiovascular system, with minimal stress on the joints. Fitness in the water is therefore particularly appropriate for seniors recovering from injury or for whom walking is getting more difficult.
Whether it’s through aquafitness activities, or simply by swimming at your own pace, enjoying some time in the pool is a great way for retirees to stay active. Either in the seniors’ residence where you live, in your condo building or at the municipal indoor pool in your area, you will certainly find a place to enjoy swimming, even in winter.
3. Join a walking club
Among the most accessible and beneficial activities, walking is definitely on the top of the list. With significant physical and cardiovascular benefits, it is an effective way for seniors to stay healthy and active. It also has the potential to help morale. All this at your own rhythm.
Although it is more popular in summer, it is still possible to walk on a regular basis during the winter. To prevent problems related to ice and snow, walking clubs often organize indoor activities. One popular example is in shopping malls. Walking indoors with others is a fun, convenient and safe way for seniors to stay active, even during the coldest months of the year.
4. At-home workout for seniors
Looking for an alternative manner for an elderly to stay physically active without having to leave the house too often during winter time ? At-home exercise is an interesting solution offering increasing possibilities. Online training programs, private remote coaching, YouTube videos or even fitness or yoga DVDs. Options are almost endless. Working out at home is certainly an activity worth considering for seniors who want to keep moving this winter. Especially since it can be done in the comfort of your own home.
With a well planned home training program, it is still possible for seniors to maintain good physical condition all year round, regardless of the unpredictable winter weather.
5. Be an active senior by enjoying outdoor activities this winter
Even if winter has its challenges, it can also offer a lot of wonderful moments. From the first snowflakes, to Christmas markets, to snow sculptures and hot chocolates in order to warm up after a winter walk, there are so many little delights to enjoy during winter time. For many, it is even considered the most beautiful season of the year. So why not take advantage of those winter activities ? With appropriate warm clothing and the proper equipment to ensure safety, it is possible to enjoy winter at any age, including after retirement.
Taking care of an elderly relative ? Why not suggest a little winter outing ? All you have to do is put on warm gloves, the most slip-resistant winter boots you have and go play outside ! The powerful benefits of outdoor activities for seniors should definitely not be underestimated. Fresh air is good for everyone.
Don’t let the cold season slow you down. Despite the snow accumulation and cooler temperatures, there are many ways for seniors to stay active during the winter.The key is to find the option that feels best for you. Are you more the type of elderly person who prefers to take advantage of indoor pool time, participate in group activities, join a walking club, work out independently at home, or get out and enjoy the outdoors in the winter ? All of these winter activities are very popular and always appreciated by many active seniors every year.
Whether it’s for you, or for an elderly relative you’re taking care of, there is certainly an activity that will make you feel good and help you stay active this winter. It is now up to you to choos
