Study Shows the Benefits of Walking for Seniors

A study from the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) trial concluded that if you want to remain mobile and healthy in old age, you should start walking.  Furthermore, it says even if you are already well into old age, it is not too late to reap the benefits.  

The 2½ year trial included more than 1,600 men and women between the ages of 70 and 89, of whom none had exercised regularly; and all were relatively frail.  The study authors say half of the participants took part in a daily exercise plan that included walking in addition to strength and balance exercises.  The other half of the group did some gentle stretching routines and took part in healthy aging educational workshops.  

Researchers found that those who were assigned to the exercise group were “28% less likely to have become disabled (defined by the inability to walk about 400 yards without help) compared to those in the education group. They were also 18% less likely to have had any episode of physical disability.”  The study’s authors believe the results would be even more marked if those in the “healthy aging workshops” had not discovered the benefits of exercising on their own.  

Walking is easy to do and does not require special equipment other than a pair of good walking shoes.  If you are a senior who wants to start exercising, medical professionals say consult your healthcare provider, and slowly and gradually work your way toward longer distances.  

At MorningStar at Silver Lake, we value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals and are committed to creating a retirement communities that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Along with our fitness center, residents have many opportunities to exercise and keep moving.   Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior housing in Everett, and why our residents are happy to call MorningStar “home.”

MorningStar at Silver Lakes’ mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior housing Everett, WA offers. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide residents exceptional independent and assisted living.

Source:health.harvard.edu/blog/walking-exercise-helps-seniors-stay-mobile-independent-201405287173