Q. This summer, I enjoyed watching the Olympics and seeing so many athletes do remarkable things. Whether it was gymnastics, swimming, archery, or anything in between, I was inspired seeing people “go for the gold.” I know my competitive sports days are behind me, but I can’t help but think of how I might get out and get some exercise.
A. This summer’s Olympics were very exciting! And even though we couldn’t all compete in Paris, there are still many adult sports opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. These include basketball and baseball leagues, walking and running clubs, and physical activity challenges at the senior center.
Regardless of whether you are interested in organized sports or just want to be more active, moving more every day provides many different health benefits. It can improve sleep, reduce anxiety and depression, and help manage blood pressure. It can also lower our risk of developing dementia, heart disease, diabetes, and some forms of cancer.
Physical activity will look different for all of us, depending on our own abilities and goals. It’s important to first talk with your health care provider about the safest way to get started. Once you do that, there are countless approaches to becoming more active:
- Check out the exercise options at your local senior center. Most senior centers (like The Center in Lawrence or the Council on Aging in Salem) offer regular classes at no or low costs. This can include things like Zumba, yoga, or chair aerobics.
- Visit the YMCA in your community. The Merrimack Valley YMCA’s Andover/North Andover site has an Active Living Center where seniors can take Tai Chi or Enhance Fitness classes and can even sign up for one-on-one personal training. Many YMCAs also offer open swim time for seniors.
- Give pickleball a try! Pickleball is like badminton, tennis and ping pong but is less strenuous and involves less impact. Newburyport Adult Recreation has some great courts to play on and even has some loaner paddles.
- If transportation or mobility are issues for you, many local public access stations offer programs through the television or online. You can participate from the comfort of your own home.
If you are new to physical activity, start small. This could include stretching activities from your chair a few minutes a day or taking a walk down a long hall three times a week. For more ideas to help get you moving, contact AgeSpan’s Healthy Living Center of Excellence at 978-946-1338.
Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org.
Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.
First published in the Eagle-Tribune.
