As we get older, it can be tempting to become less active. However, research shows us that keeping active, or returning to activity, can really improve your quality of life.

As your body ages, you can feel as though your slowing down, and not as strong as you were. Often people will have multiple health conditions that affect their ability to move around. But being less active makes many health conditions harder to manage, puts you more at risk of falling and can lead to you loosing independence.

So it’s better to stay as active as you can, no matter what your health needs are!

If someone is very limited in their activity, here are some tips for getting started being more active…

• Try standing up or taking a short walk around the house during the advert breaks on TV
• Have a go at some gentle exercises in the chair
• Set some goals for yourself – perhaps to be able to cook a meal yourself or walk to the end of the street
• This link has some tips on keeping steady on your feet

If you are already active around the home, here are some ideas to progress to the next level

• Try an exercise class, like Zumba or Pilates, many of these classes also have a seated option
• If you used to enjoy team sports, many local teams offer walking football and netball
• Go swimming
• Find out about local walks you can do

If you’d like advice from a Physiotherapist about getting more active, get in touch with us for a free, no obligation chat about your needs