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Aging Well

Healthy Aging

Healthy aging is about much more than staying in good physical shape—it’s about maintaining a sense of purpose and zest for life. These resources can help you explore the aspects of life that contribute most to health and happiness as you age.

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Healthy Aging FAQs

What are the best exercises for seniors?
The best exercises for seniors will vary depending on your specific goals and limitations. If you want to increase your stability, try out balance exercises, such as single leg raises. Use a chair to keep yourself steady if needed. Strength-building activities for seniors include exercises, like wall pushups, can help build muscle and bone mass. Simple stretching exercises or yoga can improve flexibility. Cardio exercises to burn fat and increase stamina could include anything from cycling to swimming to walking.
What is chair yoga for seniors?
Chair yoga involves moving into and holding certain poses while seated in a chair. Some poses require you to stand, using the chair for balance. Similarly, sofa yoga involves using your couch for support as you move through poses. Chair yoga is a useful exercise option if you’re experiencing a decline in mobility or balance. Research shows that the practice can provide physical benefits, such as increased mobility, and also  improve your mood and sense of well-being.
What are the best chair exercises for seniors?
The best chair exercises for seniors include seated bicep curls with a dumbbell, which can build arm strength. Sit-to-stands, which you can think of as chair-assisted squats, can improve balance and leg strength. Chair yoga and chair tai chi can improve flexibility and help you relax. It’s also possible to do some aerobic activities from a chair to increase your lung capacity, strengthen your heart, and improve your stamina. Try seated marches where you lean back and lift your legs up and down as if marching.
Why are balance exercises important for seniors?
Balance exercises are important for seniors to help maintain stability and prevent falls. Balance exercises such as yoga, tai chi, and posture exercises can help improve your balance, posture, and the quality of your walking. Other balance exercises, such as single leg stands and the standing march, can also help to improve stability. The more you practice balance exercises, the greater confidence you’ll feel in your stability and the less you’ll worry about falling.
What are melatonin side effects in the elderly?
Side effects in older adults of using melatonin as a sleeping aid can include restlessness, anxiety, irritability, and vivid dreams. Diarrhea and nausea are also possible. Some older people may also experience residual drowsiness the next day, which can increase the risk of falls. Melatonin isn’t considered addictive and doesn’t come with withdrawal effects. To learn more and find other ways of improving your sleep, read: Sleep Tips for Older Adults.