{"id":103827,"date":"2024-05-22T15:50:27","date_gmt":"2024-05-22T14:50:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wellbeingmagazine.com\/?p=103827"},"modified":"2024-08-26T17:49:43","modified_gmt":"2024-08-26T17:49:43","slug":"mental-wellbeing-in-motion-how-physical-activity-boosts-senior-mental-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wellbeingmagazine.com\/mental-wellbeing-in-motion-how-physical-activity-boosts-senior-mental-health\/","title":{"rendered":"Mental Wellbeing in Motion: How Physical Activity Boosts Senior Mental Health"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The relationship between physical activity and mental health is crucial, particularly for the ageing population. As life expectancy increases, so does the importance of maintaining not only physical health but mental health as well. The challenges of ageing are often accompanied by increased feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can exacerbate mental health issues. Luckily, physical activity can offer many benefits to seniors’ mental health. From enhancing mood and cognitive function to fostering social connections, staying active can be a key component in sustaining a vibrant and healthy mental state as we age.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Link Between Physical Activity and Mental Health <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Aside from its physical benefits, exercise has proven benefits for mood, concentration, and alertness. The reason why is a bit more complex, as inactivity can be both a cause and a symptom of struggling with mental health. While remaining active during those times can be difficult, knowing how important it is\u2014and how it affects your brain\u2014can help be a motivating factor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Working out affects your brain and body by releasing various \u2018feel good\u2019 chemicals<\/a>. These include endorphins and adrenaline to help your body\u2019s endurance for the physical aspect of the workout. Additionally, exercise can help reduce cortisol levels, the body\u2019s stress hormone, which helps to improve mood. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Further benefits include working as an outlet for frustration in your personal or professional life and an opportunity to socialise if you work out with a group or class. By creating a support network and having a safe outlet for negative emotions, you can help improve many symptoms of mental illness to help you get back on track. These social benefits can be especially helpful for seniors, who often experience feelings of loneliness and isolation<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Types of Physical Activities Beneficial for Seniors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Any physical activity that you find enjoyable and sustainable is a good activity to engage in, even if that\u2019s just a walk around the park. Professionals recommend<\/a> two and a half hours of moderate to vigorous intensity aerobic activity weekly for older individuals, with muscle and bone strengthening activities twice a week. If you\u2019re looking to start working out or expand your routine, here are a few options that can help:<\/p>\n\n\n\n