Being active throughout our entire lives and staying active as we age is of dire importance. The saying “move it or lose it” isn’t just catchy, it’s a guiding principle on how we should view aging. If we keep our bodies moving and stay active, we will retain mobility as we age. However, if we live sedentary lives, we will slowly lose the abilities and mobility that some take for granted today. One of the perks of moving into a senior living community is that there are several fitness classes and daily activities available to residents to keep them active and engaged. These are also good opportunities for socialization. At the Cardinal at North Hills, a premier Kisco Senior Living community in Raleigh, residents may choose from multiple activities and fitness classes every week.
“The Cardinal’s Art of Living Well® philosophy is featured in every aspect of community life and presents unique social and wellness opportunities that strengthen the mind, body and spirit,” said Tom Ford, executive director of The Cardinal. “Active aging is about more than moving the body around and attending exercise classes. There are many dimensions of wellness to engage in, and our community’s wellness director, Rick Minichino, helps senior residents by promoting the primary aspects of a healthy lifestyle: emotional, intellectual, physical, social, spiritual and vocational. As a result of these efforts and the efforts of other Kisco communities, Kisco Senior Living was recognized as an Industry Innovator by the International Council on Active Aging.”
Kisco Senior Living Wellness Program includes:
- Exercise classes
- Lifelong learning
- Innovative therapy
- Spirituality and meditation
- Intergenerational activities
According to the Journal of Aging Research, physical activity reduces many major mortality risk factors, including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, coronary artery disease, stroke, and cancer. The Journal of Aging Research also published an article featuring the results of 13 studies describing eight different cohorts which suggest that regular physical activity is associated with an increase in life expectancy by 0.4 to 6.9 years.
Tips on Living a More Active Life:
- To live the life you want to live, there is nothing more powerful than exercise. Devote 150 minutes a week to get amazing benefits. This is only 2% of your time each week. When you take the time to stay active, you are making an investment in yourself.
- Find activities that you enjoy doing so that it is not a chore but something you cannot wait to do. When you become healthy and fit, your options expand dramatically.
- Go for a walk after dinner. Walking is a good place to start for those who do not want to follow rigorous workout regimens. Be sure to walk with purpose!
- Engage in puzzles and exercises that keep your brain active. Take classes, read books, play scrabble – anything that challenges the brain.
- Find friends or family to support you in these endeavors.
