Staying active: the key to ageing well

Tips for keeping active in senior years

Intereach Community Support Workers Kay and Fran have been running strength and balance classes in northern Victoria for a few years.

Here are their five tips for staying active as you age.

1. Make activities/exercise fun

“Mix it up to keep it interesting,” Kay said.

“Incorporate a mix of aerobic activities, strength training, flexibility exercises, and balance-enhancing activities. This can include walking, swimming, light weightlifting, and yoga.”

2. Walk daily (if able) to increase heart rate

“Thirty minutes of walking improves cardiovascular health and joint flexibility and also boosts mood, cognitive function, and overall wellbeing,” Fran said.

3. Remain social, join groups, such as an Intereach Strength and Balance class

“Our classes offer so much more than improving physical health,” Kay said.

“While the exercises are the most important part, the classes improve social connectedness and mental wellbeing as we and our participants are having fun together, making new friends and catching up for coffee afterwards.

“It’s a lovely community vibe and everyone who comes wants to exercise and they get a lot out of it.”

Click here to see a strength and balance class in action.

4. Practise strength and balance daily

“There are proven physical and mental health benefits from strength and balance exercising, with health experts recommending it be undertaken on a regular basis,” Kay said.

“This type of exercise can increase muscle size and strength, maintain body density, improve the strength of legs and reduce joint pain. It can also reduce the risk of falls, which can lead to injury.”

5. Try to do some form of activity every day

“Exercise doesn’t have to be formal,” Fran said.

“Gardening, walking, housework, and even dancing around the living room can contribute to physical activity.

“Find enjoyable ways to stay active in your daily routine.”

*And remember, before starting any exercise program, it’s essential to consult with healthcare providers to ensure safety and suitability. This step is crucial, especially for people with existing health conditions.