Seven Simple Exercises to Reduce Blood Pressure in Seniors
High blood pressure in seniors can be worrisome. Utilize these very simple exercises to help keep your blood pressure in the normal range.
Most adults over the age of 65 have high blood pressure to some degree. This number is expected to rise over the coming years due to a combination of diet choices, the aging population, and unhealthy lifestyle choices.
Hypertension can result in decreased blood flow to the heart and reduced oxygenation of your body’s organs. It can cause chest pain, heart failure, strokes, and more. The worst part is that it can easily go unnoticed without regular doctor’s checkups.
Here are seven exercises to reduce blood pressure in seniors that may be at higher risk.
1. Walking
One of the simplest and easiest forms of exercise for reducing hypertension is by going for short walks at least a few days a week. You should walk for at least 30 minutes at whatever pace is most comfortable. Doing so can reduce your stress levels, help with blood flow, and is a good way to burn off extra calories.
2. Jogging
If you want a more efficient way to reduce high blood pressure, you can also jog. This is a higher-impact option that requires a higher level of fitness than walking. It’s harder on your joints, so it may not be a good option for everyone.
3. Dancing
A fun way to have fun and lower blood pressure at the same time is by dancing. Not only does it help you burn off stress but it’s also something you can do in the comfort of your own home.
4. Swimming
Anyone with access to a pool can engage in swimming exercises. This provides a great way for anyone to get active without suffering much joint pain.
5. Cycling
Cycling is another activity you can do both indoors and outdoors. It’s a great exercise for your lower body, helps burn calories, and gets your blood pumping. You also won’t have to worry about excess joint pain since you’ll be seated.
6. Gardening
If you’ve just started up some new blood pressure medication, a safe form of exercise is gardening. Taking care of some flowers or vegetables in your yard requires a lot of bending over, sitting down, standing up, and doing minor digging.
One of the biggest benefits is that you can garden on your own property, so you can start and stop whenever you like.
7. Hiking
Anyone who wants to explore the outdoors and get some sun will enjoy hiking. How strenuous this activity will be for you will largely depend on the trail you choose.
Some inclines and hills require more muscle power to traverse. However, you can also find plenty of easier trails if you want to take in the scenery. Just remember to wear sunblock while you’re out.
Achieve Lower Blood Pressure in Seniors
High blood pressure in seniors needs to be avoided at all costs. Try out some of these different exercises if you want to become more active and improve your health.
It’s your life. Live it your way.
WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and personalized support to help your loved ones age well at home and in your community. Our Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) meets the changing needs of seniors, often at no cost, while helping you navigate life as a caregiver. To see if you qualify, call: (888) 750-0248 | TTY 711 or visit: welbehealth.com/contact
