Depression and Exercise
Depression is not a natural part of aging, yet many elderly individuals experience aspects of the disease in their senior years. Often, the elderly are also reluctant to address their depression for fear of burdening their family or because of a misconception that depression is a sign of weakness. Depression is not something that can be treated alone. Elderly loved ones should speak with their doctor about treatment. Seniors who are resistant to discussing depression or accepting treatment may be willing to try exercising. Studies have found that regular exercise can positively affect mood and lower rates of depression. This may appeal to seniors who are resistant to other depression treatments. Exercising regularly releases endorphins, a chemical in the body which triggers a positive feeling.Furthermore, the benefits of exercising don't require a rigorous regimen. Moderate forms of exercise that may help the elderly with depression include:
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• Biking
• Dancing
• Gardening
• Golf (walk instead of using a cart)
• Housework (especially sweeping, mopping, or vacuuming)
• Jogging at a moderate pace
• Low-impact aerobics
• Playing tennis
• Swimming
• Walking
• Yard work (especially mowing or raking)
• Yoga
If the senior is feeling depressed, making the effort to exercise can be tough. Make it easier by considering exercises that will be simple to stick with, and possibly even something to look forward to.
By maintaining a regular routine, exercise becomes part of a senior's lifestyle and will help reduce your elderly loved one's depression. To see the benefits of exercise on depression, seniors should try to exercise 20 to 30 minutes, three times a week. Four or five times a week is even better, but make sure they don't push themselves too hard.
In addition to exercise's effects on depression chemically, it also creates an opportunity to build social support, which is another tool for overcoming depression. Elderly individuals, who often become lonely in old age, may benefit from exercising with a friend or spouse, or joining a class. They will not only benefit from the physical activity, but also the emotional comfort of the support from others.
Senior should always speak with their doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. This is particularly important for elderly individuals who haven't exercised in a while or have medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease. A senior's doctor can help create a healthy plan based on their conditions.
If an elderly loved one is unable to exercise, there are other options for boosting mood. Studies have found that meditation and massage therapy may also stimulate endorphin secretion, increase relaxation, and help boost mood.
Seniors may also consider the help of home care. Caregivers can play a great role by encouraging fitness and ensuring that seniors are safe while exercising.
