Staying Active, Staying Healthy, Staying Happy

We are an active Senior Living Community in Utica, NY. Maintaining an active lifestyle is beneficial for individuals of all ages, but it holds particular significance for seniors, enhancing their experience here at The Neighborhoods of Acacia Village.

There are several compelling reasons why engaging in physical activity is wise for everyone. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services underscores its vital role in fostering longevity and vitality, especially as we age. Here are some benefits for staying active for additional motivation:

Benefits of Staying Active as a Senior

 

It lowers your risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer

Regular activity can improve your blood circulation, regulate blood pressure, balance your cholesterol, and reduce other cardiovascular risks. It can also help with weight management. When you move your body, your body reacts with an improved immune system and fights inflammation more readily.

Improves your strength and balance so you can prevent injuries and stay independent

A combination of strength training and balance work helps in so many ways. Having a muscle system that is active has so many practical advantages. Not only to help you with the day to day chores you do, but also to keep you from falling or reducing the impact of falls. Falling is a risk for anyone, but less of one when we have better balance.

Activity diminishes some forms of chronic pain

It may seem counterintuitive to stay active when you’re experiencing some pain when you move, but many painful chronic conditions are lessened by having regular and safe exercise practices. As always, consult with your doctor, because everyone’s situation is different, but you’ll be surprised at how often a medical professional will recommend a more active lifestyle.

Improves your mood, including anxiety and/or depression

The body and the mind are connected in complex ways that include the effect on mood. “Take the body and the mind will follow.” is an adage that applies here. A bit of physical activity will release endorphins, improve your sleep, and provide some serotonin. If you can find a workout buddy or a walking partner or a team to join, you’ll also experience the benefits that come with social interactions. Everything is better with a friend or partner.

Improves your ability to think, learn, and make good decisions

Similar to the benefits activity has for your mood, it also is good medicine for your brain and its functioning. An active person tends to have an active brain. That means better planning, task switching, and organizing skills you’ll be able to develop or retain. Exercise has been shown to increase Brain Derived Neurotropic Factors, which is, basically, a booster for the brain. If you learn, play, and do, then your brain will get much needed boosting for even more learning, playing, and doing.

How Much? How Often? 

 

The U.S. Department on Health and Human Services says that you should aim for 150 minutes of exercise each week. What activity you engage in to achieve that number is really up to your personal  preferences and physical limitations. It’s always recommended that you talk to your doctor when starting any new exercise program.

Here are a few tips you might want think about when coming up with an activity plan for your week:

1. Try to mix it up. Try to strengthen your muscles, improve your cardio, and work on your muscles that help with balance. Having a variety of activities is going to give you a broader range of motion and health benefits.
2. Find a buddy, someone who will be your partner for these activities. Studies show that having someone to whom you are accountable and will be a cheerleader is going to make the whole experience more beneficial and enjoyable.
3. Have fun! Having fun is a vital component to physical activity. Physical activity that isn’t fun, well, that sounds  a lot like work.

Acacia Village Promotes Active Senior Living by providing:

• State-of-the Art Fitness Center
• Swimming pool with exercise programs
• The Campus has a number of walking paths and scenic views to enjoy
• Nature Trails and walking trails at Proctor Park right next door, with a creek and lily pond.

Plus, the city of Utica has so much going on nearby that it makes it easy to find things to do and places to see.

Staying active doesn’t have to be a chore – it can be a chance to connect with friends, try new things, and feel your very best. And at Acacia Village, we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way!