October is Mental Health Awareness month and it's an important reminder for us all to look after our physical and mental health. Walking can be a brilliant way to stay in shape as you get older - it's a gentle exercise and even 20 minutes a day can make a difference to how you feel - both inside, and out.
The earlier you can start improving your fitness the better - being frail as you get older mens you're more at risk of falls and illnesses. Walking is one of the best ways to keep fit and enjoy the outdoors at the same time.
Here are just some of the benefits of walking:
Lose weight
When we get older, we are more prone to putting on weight as we move around less, yet our diets stay the same. Walking can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight - just 20/30 minutes a day makes your body work and burn calories.
Cardio health
Walking keeps your heart healthy as it increases your heart rate, and lowers your risk of heath disease and raised blood pressure. If you were used to running when you were younger, you'll love walking as you get older!
Reduce the risk of Type-2 Diabetes
Walking might help prevent type-diabetes in later life - combine this with a healthy diet and regular exercise!
Bone Strength
It's important to look after our bones especially as we get older, so we can reduce the risk of falls and injury. Walking helps to keep your bones strong, lowering the risk of breaking them in later life.
Keep a positive outlook
Walking helps mental health in many ways: being outside in nature helps us to keep a positive perspective; walking also helps release endorphins so it boosts our mood; walking can be a social event so it helps prevent loneliness. It's a great mindful activity to practice on your own or with a local group, depending on your mood.
These are just some of the reasons you might want to include walking in your regular routine with your home carer. As you get older, your abilities might change - this is where a Live-in Carer can help you with walks, or if your mobility has changed they can help you get outside with a wheelchair to enjoy nature and fresh air. If you or your loved one needs a helping hand at home and are looking for an at home carer or live in carer, we're always here to talk: 01264 319 399