Health Benefits of Walking for Seniors
Celebrating National Walking Day
National Walking Day, which takes place annually on the first Wednesday in April, highlights the importance of getting our bodies moving. Sponsored by The American Heart Association, National Walking Day exists to remind people of all ages about the health benefits of walking. Walking is an excellent form of exercise for senior adults. Whether you do a short walk or a long one, there are many health benefits associated with getting some steps in each day.
For all of us, aging can introduce new or evolving health concerns. As our bodies and minds continue changing, it’s important to find tools that compliment our individual abilities to continue caring for ourselves in a holistic way. As our Nourish program highlights, a holistic approach to wellness is essential to vibrant senior life. Staying active is essential to mind, body, and soul wellness. Walking is one such approach, offering holistic health benefits to senior adults. Taking a brisk or leisurely walk once a day is an excellent way to boost overall health in a variety of areas!
Physical Health Benefits of Walking
Walking regularly can:
Lower your risk for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes
Strengthen your bones, possibly preventing osteoporosis or osteoarthritis
Help reduce blood pressure for folks dealing with hypertension
Improve coordination and balance, helping to reduce fall risk
Strengthen muscles and improve joint flexibility
Mental Health Benefits of Walking
Walking regularly can also:
Improve energy levels, increasing stamina and motivation
Increase mood and confidence levels
Decrease some symptoms of anxiety and depression
Soothe feelings of loneliness, improving social life by walking with friends, or meeting new friends while walking.
Brain Health Benefits of Walking Regularly
Worldwide, there are more than 50 million people living with dementia related illnesses such as Lewy Body Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, Frontotemporal Dementia, or Vascular Dementia. According to an observational study published in 2022 by JAMA Neurology, increasing the steps you take each day has the potential to decrease risk of dementia by significant margins. The study observed that adults between the ages of 40 and 79 who walked about 10,000 steps per day were less likely to develop dementia over the seven-year period of observation. Adults in the same age range who walked fewer than 5,000 steps per day also experienced decreased risk factors for developing dementia.
Physical activities such as walking can have a profound impact on brain health. According to an article published by Piedmont Medical Center, walking regularly can help to improve quality of sleep, inflammation, and feelings of anxiety. It can also improve the centers of the brain responsible for language, memory, and thinking.
This National Walking Day, plan to get out for a walk! Invite a friend or loved one to join you, and take it one step at a time as you develop a walking routine that holds enriching, long-term benefits for your mental and physical health!
