Stretching for Seniors - Stretch and Maintain Your Flexibility

Stretching has many benefits for all types of people. In general, stretching helps with relaxation, and much flexibility can be gained from stretching on a regular basis. Usually, stretching is done before and after exercises to warm up and soothe muscles. However, stretching for seniors is a whole other story.

Stretching for seniors: What are the benefits?

As they age, senior citizens begin slowing down their movements and even give up their regular routines to avoid injury and falls as their bodies get weaker. In some cases, seniors become unable to walk due to disease or loss of strength.

However, it is extremely important to keep muscles strong, even when one cannot walk or move for long periods of time. That’s where stretching for seniors carries the most benefits.

Stretching is relaxing and soothing, and can help strengthen muscles and improve joints. Stretching for seniors aren’t difficult or time-consuming – just enough to get the body moving. It takes just a few minutes a day without having to get into any uncomfortable positions. With time, senior citizens can enjoy a more fulfilling life of extended movement.

When the body doesn’t move, it only gets weaker. Muscles get smaller and even basic movements become impossible. Add that to joint pain, some senior citizens suffer on a daily basis. But when stretching is added to your life, you’ll feel better and joint problems will improve greatly.

In addition, stretching for seniors can improve blood circulation which promotes a healthy heart. It can also reduce symptoms of diseases which attacks joints and muscles while also being beneficial for depression and an overall feeling of wellbeing. Besides, senior stretching can be a lot of fun.

Stretching for Seniors - Here's How You Do It

Stretching exercises for seniors may seem simple and not worth the time. But even with little movement stretching for seniors can help. Generally, stretches are held for a few seconds and is repeated on alternating sides.

To begin senior stretching, try walking for five to ten minutes beforehand to warm up the muscles. If this isn’t possible, a warm bath will do the trick. Warming up is extremely important to prevent injury to joints and muscles.

For each stretch, hold for 10 to 30 seconds and repeat one or two times. The hamstring stretch, back stretch, and torso stretch are great stretches for seniors. For the hamstring stretch, try siting down with a chair in front of you. Put one leg up on the chair and lean forward, keeping the back straight. For the back stretch, interlace your fingers and extend in front of you. Put your head down and extend your arms further until you can feel the stretch in your back. For the torso stretch, sit with your arms up, fingers interlaced and palms facing up. Slowly and gently lean to one side.

Hold when you feel the stretch. Then, lean to the other side and repeat.

When it comes to stretching for seniors, there is a variety you can do. Make senior stretching fun by doing it together as a group. Before starting any stretches or exercises, consult your physician.