Insurance Advisor Article

Senior Fitness

The Senior population is growing, and it is important that seniors do more to stay healthy and fit. Senior fitness and exercise may not be the cure for everything, but we are learning more about its benefits every day.

According to a report published by the Surgeon General's office, regular physical activity reduces the risk of developing some of the leading illnesses in the United States for people of all ages. People that are relatively inactive can improve their health and well-being by introducing even moderate activity into their lifestyles.

A balanced exercise program should include muscle-strengthening exercise and cardiovascular conditioning. Studies show muscle-strengthening exercises can increase muscle mass and bone density, which helps decrease the risk of fracturing bones if a fall occurs. Muscle-strengthening also helps to increase synovial fluid which increases flexibility and can help reduce the risk of falling and lead to a more independent lifestyle.

Cardiovascular exercise, walking, running, swimming, bicycling, or any activity that increases the heart-rate for 20 minutes or longer helps to increase energy levels and endurance. The most important part of any senior fitness or exercise program is to start slowly and build the program over time. It may be as simple as increasing a daily walk from two blocks to three blocks after one week. The important thing is to choose and stay with an activity you enjoy.

5 Tips to Start Your New Program

Get a check-up

Meet with your healthcare provider to see whether you need to make any special considerations before starting an exercise program.
Know your options

Before starting any program, check out your options. Pick a program you know you will enjoy. Some people like to go to a gym and do a structured workout, while others enjoy a less structured workout like a walking club.
Determine your participation style

Would you prefer taking a class or working out solo? Are you a morning or night person? Would you prefer to exercise indoors or outside? Can you devote large amounts of time, or more frequent, quick intervals? It is important to be realistic about how you will participate.
Start slowly

Although many people are eager to get started, don't overdo it too quickly. A good way to start slowly is to record all of your activities, noting how much of your time you are active and inactive. Then, look at when you can fit some short walks (for example, 10 minutes) into your day.
Make a date

Find a friend to exercise with. Having someone to exercise with helps keep you motivated. Whether it is a friend or a trainer, making an appointment will help you to stay committed to your exercise program.

Source: www.fitnessmba.com; www.seniorjournal.com

The Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan is available to both AICPA members and their spouses who are at least 65 years of age. Now, with the AICPA Parent's Plan, you have the opportunity to extend coverage to the eligible parents of you and your spouse.

This is an excerpt from Insight from the December 2006 Issue of Insight, a quarterly AICPA Medicare Supplement Insurance Program publication.

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