Is your parent in an assisted living facility or getting ready to move into one? It’s a huge change and there’s no doubt a transitional phase will be necessary. You want to be sure they are as happy as possible, and well cared for when you can’t be there with them. Part of their care should be to encourage as much physical activity as possible and ensure that it is safe for them. Wondering how you can encourage them to get moving and stay fit once they enter an assisted living facility? Here are some ideas you can use.
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Choose a Facility with Recreational Options
First and foremost, the most effective way you can ensure your elderly parent stays active is to choose an assisted living facility with a wide array of recreational options. By offering activities on-site, it becomes convenient. Not only that, but other residents in the facility will join, which also makes for a great social opportunity.
Activities may resemble a traditional workout class, or it could be something more unique like cooking or art classes, which still promote activity. You can check out assisted living care options such as Brandywine Living where they host a wide range of activities. It’s the kind of requirement that should be on the ‘must-have’ list when looking for the ideal assisted living facility for your parent.
Engage in Physical Activity Together
Depending on the facility and your parent’s physical condition, you may also want to make it a point to do something active with them when you visit. So this could be as simple as walking the grounds or the interior of the facility together. They will be wrapped up in the social aspect of the visit while getting in a little exercise for the day.
Make Sure They Have the Proper Gear
Of course, if you want to encourage your parent to be physically active, it’s important to ensure they have the right gear. Here’s a list of the basic items that should have at their disposal:
- Comfortable, supportive, well-fitting athletic shoes that offer good grip
- Clothing that is loose, breathable, and lightweight for being active in
- Any needed workout equipment such as small hand weights (if safe for them) or other such equipment
Walk Them Through Stretches They Can Do in Their Room
Even if there isn’t a class or activity they can join, they can still do stretches in their room (as long as it is safe for them). Stretching helps to keep the body limber and loose, improves blood circulation, helps to prevent injuries from happening, helps to improve coordination and balance, helps to build muscle, and keeps their body strong. You also don’t need a lot of room to do stretching exercises, so they are very convenient.
Encourage Great Health at All Times
Physical activity is important for your health no matter your age. Even though most people are well aware of this fact, it doesn’t always mean it’s easy to find the time or know what activities to do. Helping your parent to figure out the best ways to stay active in an assisted living facility will take the confusion out of the process for them.
