Smart Senior

Walking is important to the homebound senior. Whether you are staying home because of social distancing or because your transportation options are limited is beside the point. Now is the time to reevaluate your mobility options and start an exercise program.
Walking used to be considered just a way to get from one place to another; today, it is so much more. Going for a walk is a legitimate excuse to get out of the house and interact with others. A wave and a quick hello will remind you that you are not alone.
Walking is different these days; more purposeful. Many have stopped texting and talking on their phones when walking; it is hard to talk through a mask and it is important to watch where you are going.
If you haven’t done much walking lately, the idea might seem quite daunting. Walking may not be as easy or as mindless as it used to be, but it is good for you in so many ways. While side effects of aging: joint and back pain, foot problems, fatigue and poor balance may have you reeling, you can’t give up.
Most people can overcome these obstacles if they want to, but the choice is yours. If you take your complaints to the doctor, he/she will likely tell you that a walking program is the treatment of choice.
Bad knees? You’ve heard it all; lose weight, walk more, and exercise to strengthen muscles. Back pain? Stay active. Fatigue? Studies show that exercise will lessen fatigue. Weird huh.
Feet hurt? Your feet need exercise too. Not just walking, but gentle massage and stretching exercises. You can find articles and exercises on the internet, but learning how to do them correctly from a licensed professional is advisable. Besides you will want to talk to these same specialists about exercises for balance and strengthening.
Walking will boost your health, ward off disease, keep your weight under control and make you feel good. Put on your mask, lace up your shoes, and go for a walk.