Physical Activity
Physical Activity is one of the key components of fall prevention. It’s never too late to get moving and physical fitness has many obvious health benefits for older adults! Remember, physical activity for the elderly should never hurt, and you don’t have to work up a sweat for physical exercise to be effective. Activities such as cleaning the house, dancing, or even climbing a few stairs are all levels of physical exercise.
Physical Activity and My Health
Any physical activity that safely moves your body and uses energy is good for you. The best physical activity program includes adding pastimes that you enjoy to your regular routine; exercise needs to be fun or we’ll never do it! So do physical activities that you enjoy, can comfortably do without overdoing it and make them fun! Get back to gardening, try Tai Chi, walk the dog or play golf – remember the main point is to get moving and to reap the benefits of exercise.
Whether you’ve been sedentary for years or currently lead an active lifestyle, there’s sure to be a physical activity program in your area that will suit your needs and your budget.
Find a local physical activity program
We’ve made it easy for you to find a suitable Physical Activity Program in your Maricopa County city; simply go to our resources and enter your zip code. You’ll be provided with a list of all the Physical Activity Programs available in Maricopa County, starting with the ones listed nearest to your home.
Exercises for older adults
If you’re unable to attend any of the exercise classes or programs listed, why not try one of these links? You’ll find some easy exercises that you can do at home; they’ll help improve your balance, which is an important part of preventing falls.
Strength Training for Older Adults from the CDC
Whatever your age, medical condition, or current level of physical activity, you are likely a perfect candidate for this gentle but powerful regimen of strengthening exercises.
EASY for YOU - Exercises for Older Adults
The EASY tool helps you know when to see a health care provider and how to choose activities for optimal benefit given particular health conditions or situations.
Exercise and Physical Activity for Older Adults
The National Institute on Aging provides information, exercises and videos on the benefits of physical activity for seniors.
Exercise: When to check with your doctor first
Keeping physically active is key to a healthy lifestyle. But sometimes it's best to check with your doctor before you start to exercise.
If you’d prefer a free booklet to guide you, go to this link to order your free booklet “Your Everyday Guide - Exercise and Physical Activity” from the National Institute on Aging.
More questions? Contact us
If you have any questions about physical activity and your health or your medical situation, please consult your doctor in the first instance.
For more information on how physical activity can help prevent falls in older adults , please contact the Arizona Fall Prevention Coalition through the Area Agency's 24-hour Senior HELP LINE at 602-264-HELP (4357) or by email here.