Want to improve your physical and mental health? Concerned about your ability to live independently? It's time to make exercise a regular part of your schedule. Check out a few of the benefits of working out for active older adults.
1. Exercise Enhances Your Mental Health 
Estimates indicate that 20 percent of people 55 or older experience a mental health concern. Exercise encourages the production of endorphins; this is the hormone responsible for boosting your mood.
Higher endorphin levels may reduce feelings of stress, depression, and anxiety. You're likely to feel more relaxed and in an overall better mood when you stick to a regular exercise regimen.
2. Regular Activity Improves Your Sleep
Regular activity is known to decrease the amount of time it takes you to fall asleep. It also promotes a better quality of sleep. Many older adults struggle with insomnia or frequent night wakings. Poor quality sleep impacts your cognition, mental wellbeing, and physical health.
3. Physical Activity Prevents Many Diseases
Studies have shown that consistent exercise is one of the most effective things you can do to lower your risk of certain diseases. Some of the diseases that physical activity is known to prevent are:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Dementia
4. Exercise Helps You Remain Independent
One of the benefits of working out for active older adults is that it helps you remain independent.
If you want to maintain the ability to complete the activities of daily life, it's important to make exercise a regular part of your routine. Exercise strengthens your muscles and improves your flexibility.
This boosts your balance and coordination and decreases your risk of falling.
5. The Gym Provides Ample Opportunities for Social Interactions
Older adults who regularly interact with friends are less likely to experience depression and loneliness. They're more likely to have a feeling of purpose for their lives.
Exercise classes provide a fantastic opportunity for meeting new friends and getting together with old friends. The YMCA is a popular gathering spot for people who like to work out with a partner. We follow Nevada COVID-19 protocol for your safety.
6. An Active Lifestyle Improves Your Immunity
People who exercise are more likely to have a strong immune system and less likely to get sick.
While researchers aren't entirely sure how exercise strengthens the immune system, one theory states that activity has anti-inflammatory effects on the body.
Ready to start a regular exercise routine? Stop by the Y and join today. We offer programs for active older adults. It’s never too late to get started!