Tai chi is a unique form of fitness that came from ancient China, originally created as a form of self-defense. It’s more commonly used today as a way to bring the body and mind into harmony while keeping fit. While it may take some getting used to, tai chi is an ideal routine for seniors. Here are 5 ways tai chi is great for seniors.
Balance
One of the biggest threats that seniors face in their day to day lives is falling. While younger people may be able to just pick themselves up after an unexpected tumble, according to the CDC the same fall could have serious, long-lasting repercussions for older people. Seniors who practice tai chi, though, can avoid many falls because as Shield My Senior points out, one of the key tenants of tai chi is balance. The kind of focus and muscle memory this exercise helps seniors develop can be instrumental when it comes to making sure you stay on your feet… in more ways than one.
Low-Impact
Exercise can take its toll on the body, and the older you get the higher that cost can be. Jogging, for example, is often right out the window for seniors whose frame simply can’t deal with the impact. That is part of why tai chi is so popular among seniors, according to Medicare. With its emphasis on slower, more controlled movements, tai chi is gentle on the joints and the frame.
Weight Loss and Blood Pressure
Just because tai chi happens to be low impact and slow moving, though, don’t think that automatically makes it easy. It provides quite a workout, according to Doctors Health Press. Tai chi may not be an intense workout like cardio or heavy weights but it gets the blood flowing and burns a lot of calories when done properly. This is ideal for seniors who want to stay active, while protecting themselves against heart disease and weight gain.
No Equipment Required
Some workout routines require specialized equipment in order to get the most out of them. Even something simple like running or walking means you either need to have a place you can go to walk, or you need to have a treadmill in your home so that you can keep up your distance even when the weather is ugly. Tai chi, on the other hand, can often be done in no more than a few square feet of space. This makes it ideal for seniors who want a routine they can follow at home. Whether you’re on the go, or just staying home, tai chi is an exercise that travels with you.
Keeps Your Mind Sharp
There is a definite link between keeping an active body, and keeping an active mind. For seniors who want to help keep their wits just as sharp as they were when they were younger, tai chi is an ideal solution according to The Selfhelp Home. Tai chi enhances concentration, and this acts like a whetstone for the mind by keeping seniors focused. A little bit of routine can go a long way when it comes to keeping all your faculties running smoothly into your golden years.
We strongly believe that people are happier and live well longer when they can stay living in their own home for as long as possible. Using tai chi and other forms of exercise to stay as fit and strong as possible will help increase your odds of making sure that happens. The other way to increase the probability of staying in your home is to make sure your home meets your changing needs.
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