How Investing Just 45 Minutes Each Week Can Improve Arthritis

When it comes to exercise and staying active to maintain optimum health, seniors are no exception! However, if you are one of the many older adults battling the pain of arthritis, keeping up with your physical fitness requirements can be difficult.

Thankfully, the most recent recommendations ease back on the intensity of activity for mature adults with arthritis, suggesting that as little as just 45 minutes of physical exercise weekly is sufficient to achieve and maintain a high level of functionality – and less daunting for individuals who have a tendency to steer clear of exercise.

As outlined by Northwestern University professor Dorothy Dunlop, “For those older people suffering from arthritis who are minimally active, a 45-minute minimum might feel more realistic.”

Despite these scaled-back recommendations, unfortunately, as little as 10% of mature adults affected by the difficulties of arthritis are achieving this level of activity. On the other hand, participants in a recent study who accomplished the 45-minute amount of moderate exercise every week demonstrated an astounding 80% increase in sustained or improved functionality over a 2-year period of time, compared with people who were less active. And it was determined that although any amount of activity is better than nothing, the 45-minute a week guideline is optimal.

Of course, always check with the older adult’s physician before beginning or adjusting any activity or exercise routine. With his or her approval, a great place to start out is with the Arthritis Foundation’s app, Walk With Ease, which includes goal-setting, progress-tracking, a guidebook and sample online videos to demonstrate the exercises. Putting aside designated times on a daily basis for physical exercise, and turning it into a priority, can help ensure activity becomes an ingrained routine and improves the probability of its success.

Additionally you can partner with CareWorks Health Services of Orange County, CA for a caregiver to help inspire and motivate engagement in an exercise program. It’s always more enjoyable with a companion! We can also provide transportation and accompaniment to exercise programs, to parks along with other outdoor areas for pleasant walks together, to doctors’ appointments, and more. Call us at (949) 859-4700 to learn more.