According to the National Institute of Health, not only is walking the mall great exercise, but it is the second most popular form of exercise behind walking around the neighborhood.
The Arthritis Foundation adds that walking is one of the best all-around exercises as it improves circulation, improves bones, lightens moods, strengthens muscles and leads to weight loss. Walking has even been shown to improve sleep. Inf fact, a study of post-menopausal women conducted at the University of Colorado at Boulder found that just two miles of walking a day reduced blood pressure 11 points in just 6 months. Just 30 minutes of walking a day decreased stroke risk by 20 to 40 percent.
Few people dispute the benefits of walking, but many seniors don't feel comfortable or safe walking in their neighborhoods. In certain parts of the country, the weather is not kind to walkers. This is where mall walking comes in. Malls are sheltered and protected from the weather. They are warm in the winter, cool …show more content…
The group not only helps with keeping a solid pace, but it adds a social dimension to the exercise. For seniors who are afraid of falling or need to go at a slower pace, and elder home care assistant can provide walking support. In addition to the feeling of safety, and elder home care assistant provides the motivation and companionship that others find in their walking groups.
For those who want to up their activity level, taking the stairs up and down levels a few times is certain to do the trick. Seniors should be aware that many stairwells are not frequently used, are not monitored as well, and are "off the beaten path" so-to-speak. This means extra care should be taken if using them as part of their exercise program.
Mall walking is also convenient. Malls are open long hours, and many malls open early especially for seniors who are participating in a walking