As we age our muscles become shorter and lose their elasticity. The aging process can also affect the structure of bones and muscles causing pain and decreased range of motion in the shoulders, hips, and spine.
 |
| Photo By: Senior Helpers |
Benefits of Stretching
- Relief from pain
- Increased energy levels
- Increased flexibility
- Better range of motion for joints
- Greater circulation of blood to various parts of the body1
Types of Stretching
- Shoulder and upper back stretch
- Shoulder rolls
- Neck side stretch
- Neck rotation
- Shoulder circles2
Beginning a daily exercise regimen is very important for the senior population. If they do not start stretching they will continue to lose range of motion and will suffer a decrease in health-related quality of life. They will also begin to have trouble with activities of daily living.
References:
1Benefits of Stretching-Heart of Healing. Retrieved June 28, 2015, from https://heartofhealing.net/relaxation-wellness/stretching/benefits-of-stretching/
212 Best Upper Body Stretches For Seniors and The Elderly. Retrieved June 28, 2015, from https://heartofhealing.net/relaxation-wellness/stretching/benefits-of-stretching/
Yah! Your timing is perfect and this article is greatness. I am printing it up and posting at our gym for our Silver Sneakers classes. One of our issues, as you know, is that they cannot remember what and how to stretch. This is wonderful. Thank you. You explain what, why, and how. On behalf of the classes .... thank you.
ReplyDelete