Mower County Shopper 060424

The Mower County

Tuesday, June 4, 2024 Vol. 50, No. 23

S OUTHERN M INNESOTA S HOPPERS , I NC . 3405 W. O AKLAND A VENUE • A USTIN , MN 507-437-7731

Senio� Focus

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that regular physical activity is one of the most important things individuals age 65 and older can do for their overall health. According to the CDC, regular physical activity can prevent or delay many of the health problems associated with aging and help seniors maintain their independence well into their golden years. The CDC recommends that adults age 65 and older get at least 150 minutes per week of moderateintensity activity, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity activity, which can include hiking, jogging or running. In addition, the CDC notes men and women 65 and over need to incorporate two days of muscle-strengthening activities into their workout routines each week. Muscle-strengthening activities can include weightlifting; working with resistance bands; exercises like push-ups or sit-ups that utilize individuals' body weights; digging in a garden; or yoga. Finally, seniors need to incorporate activities that improve their balance into their weekly workout regimens. The CDC notes that balance activities help to prevent falls, which can compromise seniors' physical and mental health. Walking backward, standing on one leg or using a wobble board can help seniors improve their balance. Strength exercises that focus on the back, abdomen and leg muscles also improve balance.