Seniors are the driving force behind a 36 percent increase in emergency room visits over the last decade. As the weather gets cooler, fall approaches, and you get motivated to spend more time outdoors, here are some tips for getting outside to see those beautiful colors--and steer clear of the doctor.
When you are older, you may injure your body more easily than when you were younger. Joints, tissues and muscles may not be as flexible as they once were. So as you get older, try warming up and stretching before you take that walk to look at the leaves. Cold muscles are more likely to get injured, take it slow for at least 3 to 5 minutes.
Try walking a little each day instead of taking long walks every now ant then. Exercise every day is healthier and less likely to result in injury this way.
Walk with a friend or a grandchild. If you walk with a pet, be sure to keep it on a leash so you don't have to make a mad dash in case of the pet getting into trouble. Don't be afraid to take your pet to obedience classes just to make sure a walking program with your pet is a safe adventure.
Listen to your body. As you age, you may not be able to walk as far or for as long a time you did years ago. Pay attention to your body's needs and abilities, and modify your exercise accordingly.
Remember to rest now and then--you can't see the new fall colors when concentrating on exercise too much! Head for the park bench when you begin to feel tired.
Seniors who exercise regularly are less likely to experience depression, weight gain, diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep disturbances.
So, taking in the fall colors is not only beautiful, it's healthy, too.
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