Time to dust off that thigh master, find that Jane Fonda workout tape, and put on those leg warmers. Wednesday, May 29 is National Senior Health and Fitness Day, where the theme is “Live and Thrive with Exercise” and the goal is about getting – and keeping – older Americans healthy and fit. Organizations will host health and fitness activities focusing on the senior market in their communities and encourage a healthier lifestyle.

Exercise can promote strength to keep you independent longer, increase energy to keep you active, improve balance to prevent falls, prevent and delay diseases that tend to come with age, and even suppress depression and anxiety.
Exercise can promote strength to keep you independent longer, increase energy to keep you active, improve balance to prevent falls, prevent and delay diseases that tend to come with age, and even suppress depression and anxiety.

Getting regular exercise at any age is great, but it’s particularly important for older people. Certain exercises can promote strength to keep you independent longer, increase energy to keep you active, improve balance to prevent falls, prevent and delay diseases that tend to come with age, and even suppress depression and anxiety. Something as simple as going for a short walk every day can really improve quality of life.

Organizations can sign up to host their own event at www.fitnessday.com. More than 100,000 people will participate at over 1,000 locations. Some places offer classes, health screenings, demonstrations, etc. If you have further questions you can email info@fitnessday.com or call 1-800-828-8225.

“Something as simple as going for a short walk every day can really improve quality of life.”

If you don’t feel like leaving your house, but still want to acknowledge the cause, there are plenty of things you can do at home. You can try walking up and down some stairs, going for a bike ride, dancing around in your living room, gardening, or anything else that gets you moving and makes you smile. Invite a friend or neighbor to join you, everything is more fun with company. Or if you have an older friend or relative, encourage them to get up and move a bit. My Grandma C used to call walking the aisles of the Goodwill her “cardio” and she really liked having the shopping cart to hold onto.

Having a plan and setting a goal is important when it comes to your physical health and fitness. It’s equally important to have a plan when it comes to long-term care. Speak to a specialist today about long-term care insurance and where it may fit into your plans.

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