Movement Is Medicine: The Benefits of Physical Activity for Seniors by Julie Mercer

At any age, physical activity provides many benefits for overall health. For elderly individuals, continuing to engage in physical fitness can help maintain strength, improve cognition, and ease symptoms of many chronic conditions. Our Community Liaison, Julie Mercer, has not only seen the benefits of movement with the senior individuals she has worked with, but she has also learned firsthand how physical activity can play a role in recovery and wellness. Keep reading for Julie’s advice on staying active and finding creative ways to keep moving, no matter your age.

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As I was going through volumes of articles on the benefits of movement and exercise, especially in the senior community, I realized it is just so simple — movement is medicine! Everyday activities can contribute to your loved one’s daily movement goals, such as getting out of bed, walking to the bathroom, or moving around their home. These acts might seem simple, but they can have a great impact on the health of senior individuals. Seniors can easily incorporate movement into their routine, even if they have physical limitations. They can get creative with items they already have at home, like a paper towel roll, soup can, rolled-up towel, water bottle, or even a pillow. Keep in mind, movement doesn't need to be complex or demanding. Simply do what you can, wherever you are.

In my journey to regain what I considered "normal" exercise after two hip replacements, I came to the realization that my new “normal” would look much different than my old routines. Running outdoors for 30-minutes a day was no longer an option. I had to embrace a new normal and find other ways to move that supported both my physical and mental well-being. Throughout this process, I've observed individuals both 20 years older and 20 years younger than me, and the consistent factor that remains regardless of age is this: movement is medicine! Movement contributes to the quality of life we all aspire to achieve.

So, I hope you'll join me in inspiring our seniors, regardless of their physical and mental state, to thrive by embracing a daily dose of medicine — movement!