In one minute you can learn a new healthy living tip from our Active Aging Minute video series.
Our new series of videos was developed and created by Dr. Nicole Didyk, a medical doctor, Geriatrician, CEO of The Wrinkle, and a new member with Active Aging Canada.
Osteoporosis Myths – BUSTED! Three common misconceptions about Osteoporosis.
Because what you do everyday matters!
Be sure to consult with a physician, physical therapist, or other trained health or exercise professional before doing a new exercise routine in case you have medical and physical conditions that affect the exercises and how they are applied.
Physical activity has many benefits for older adults. One positive effect of exercise is that it strengthens immune function and reduces inflammation that can reduce the severity of illness and infection.1
Research is emerging on how physical activity improves our immune response to COVID-19.2 Chronic illness, like diabetes and heart disease, is a risk factor for getting severely ill with the virus. We know that staying active reduces the risk of many chronic conditions. Also, physical activity increases the number of immune cells and improves how they function.1 One study has shown that having a higher aerobic fitness decreases the chances of having to go to the hospital with COVID-19.3
As we age, the function of the immune system declines. That can mean a greater chance of severe infection. It can also mean that we do not respond as well to vaccines.4 But the good news is that we can fight that trend with regular moderate exercise.5,6 We know, for instance, that regular physical activity makes flu vaccines work better for older adults7.
What type of exercise is best for strengthening the immune system?
Moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise: Aerobic exercise increases your breathing and heart rate. The increased circulation (blood flow) allows immune cells to travel farther into places like the lungs and encounter more infected cells.8 Your regular aerobic exercise sessions should add up to 150 minutes a week.
Muscle strengthening activities: At least twice a week, do exercises that strengthen the major muscle groups, such as the arms and legs. Strengthening your muscles is just as important because muscles are the source of many proteins that play an important role in immune function.
Being physically active may not prevent us from getting COVID. But a strengthened immune system can help to decrease our symptoms and quicken our recovery times.8
There are so many resources available to help you stay active at home. Keeping physical distancing from others does not mean that you still cannot be active. It is so good for your mind, your body and your spirit. And these days it is so important to keep busy and stay active. If you need a few ideas to stay active, stay safe and keep your distance, please check out this video link.
Active Aging Canada presents Your Active Aging Minute REWIND series.
There are so many resources available to help you stay active at home. Keeping physical distancing from others does not mean that you still cannot be active. It is so good for your mind, your body and your spirit. And these days it is so important to keep busy and stay active. If you need a few ideas to stay active, stay safe and keep your distance, please check out this video link
The Government of British Columbia has developed energy bursts videos, designed to get you moving and feeling great. Move for Life is a series of videos featuring seniors of all ages and abilities demonstrating physical activities. It includes activities for viewers with limited mobility so they can stretch and move safely. It encourages older adults to add more physical activities to their daily routine in a fun and inspiring way while explaining the benefits of doing so. When you feel like you need a burst of energy, try one of these two-minute exercises.
