02 Apr Fitness Over 65
You know exercise is good for you, but exactly how good is it? Take a look at these stats:
> Older women who are physically active are 40% to 50% less likely to die from heart disease or cancer, according to a study published in the British Medical Journal.
> Physical activity improved the working memory and Alzheimer’s assessment scores of adults with mild cognitive impairment, shows a report in the Journal of Clinical Medicine.
> An American Cancer Society study with 78,000 participants reveals that physical activity improves physical and mental health, but a sedentary lifestyle harms your brain and body.
“The findings reinforce the importance of moving more and sitting less for both physical and mental health, no matter your age or history of cancer,” says Dr. Erika Rees-Punia, the study’s lead investigator. “This is especially relevant now as so many of us, particularly cancer survivors, may be staying home to avoid COVID-19 exposure, and may be feeling a little isolated or down. A simple walk or other physical activity that you enjoy may be good for your mind and body.”
In fact, research makes it clear that older adults who engage in physical fitness:
- Lower their diabetes risk
- Reduce the risk of certain cancers like breast, lung, and colon cancer
- Strengthen bones and muscles, thereby reducing the risk of bone density loss, hip fractures, falling, and arthritis
- Decrease depression and anxiety
- Enjoy better sleep
- Delay the onset of dementia
- Manage weight gain
- Slash stroke risk and lower blood pressure
Get in shape, stay in shape at Park Springs
For some of you, physical fitness is a way of life. For others, it’s something you’d like to do but aren’t sure how to get started. Thankfully, Park Springs offers multiple ways to get you moving, and have fun doing it. Take a look at our extensive list of fitness opportunities:
Pool play. Feel like taking a dip? We have water aerobics, water volleyball, an indoor junior Olympic lap pool, a Jacuzzi, and a warm water therapy pool.
One-on-one training. Our trainers create customized plans for each of our Members.
“The unique part about Park Springs is that we promote an active lifestyle,” says Annie Liu, Park Springs Health Fitness Specialist. “We have trained professionals on site to ensure that our Members exercise safely. It’s amazing because even after a few weeks of exercise I have seen so much improvement in mobility, flexibility, and strength.”
State-of-the-art fitness center. Our fitness center boasts the latest equipment for resistance training, muscle strengthening, and aerobic workouts.
Group classes. Relax during a tai chi or gentle yoga class. Work on your flexibility in our sweat and flex session. Lower your risk of falling by taking a balance or advanced balance class.
Gardening. Did you know that gardening restores dexterity and strength, and could burn as many calories as you would in a gym? Our raised beds and greenhouse are the perfect place to get your hands dirty and get a workout.
Walking paths. Our 61-acre campus boasts walking paths for you and your dogs with beautiful views of our homes and gardens. Plus, we have private access into Stone Mountain Park with additional miles of trails.
Sports. Pétanque, a boules game, is popular at Park Springs, and bocci will make its debut on our campus in this summer. For golf lovers, our Members play at two of Stone Mountain’s award-winning courses.
“It certainly bodes well to have a driving range and two golf courses in walking distance of the cottage,” says Dan L., a Park Springs Member. “It’s nice to go over there and hit some balls and to have my friends come out and say, ‘Let’s walk over to the golf course.’”
Member clubs. Get in shape by joining our daily walking club or work on your flexibility with Members who meet to stretch together.
“Whether you’re a lifelong fitness enthusiast, a newbie to exercise, or fall somewhere in between, we’re committed to helping our Members embrace a healthy, active lifestyle,” says Angelica Patterson, Park Springs Fitness Center Manager.
But don’t take it from us; here’s what Park Springs Member Ann K. has to say: “This is what retirement is supposed to be — plenty of exercise opportunities, lectures, concerts, social events. It goes on and on. Love it!”
To learn more about our fitness activities and life at Park Springs, contact our Residency Counselors at 678-684-3300.