An interesting fact: Australia has the third longest life expectancy in the world, trailing only Monaco and Japan in the record books. It’s not surprising then to find out that older Australian adults already comprise 16% of the total population at 4.2 million.
This makes it imperative to prioritise active ageing. The International Council on Active Ageing defines the term as the promotion of the vision that all individuals no matter the age, economic status, or health condition, be fully engaged in the dimensions of life whether it be emotional, environmental, intellectual, physical, professional, social, and spiritual.
Whilst the natural ageing process often presents challenges that can hinder mobility, flexibility, and overall well-being, we can seek solutions to health matters that can help maintain our quality of life and longevity. Active ageing is more than just staying physically active – it’s about embracing life with vitality, purpose, and independence.
Regular physical activity and exercise are vital components of active ageing. However, ageing can present challenges and barriers to regular physical activity such as neurological conditions and chronic pain from disorders such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia. One way to address this is through aquatic exercise.
Aquatic exercise offers many benefits uniquely suited to the needs of older adults. The buoyancy of water reduces the impact on joints, making it an ideal environment for individuals with arthritis, osteoporosis, or mobility issues. Moreover, the resistance provided by water enhances muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness, and overall functional capacity without putting undue stress on the body.
Maintaining mobility and flexibility is crucial for older adults to perform daily activities with ease and independence. Aquatic exercise facilitates gentle stretching and range of motion exercises, helping to alleviate stiffness, improve joint mobility, and enhance overall flexibility. Falls represent a significant risk for older adults, often leading to serious injuries and loss of independence. Aquatic exercise provides a safe and supportive environment for improving balance, coordination, and proprioception – essential skills for preventing falls and maintaining stability.
Our Exercise Professionals at Healthstin in Melton will provide you with a thorough assessment and create a tailored and customised exercise program to help you be healthy at any age. Call us via 1300 090 931 or click this link to learn more or to book a session.
