Exercise has countless benefits for all ages and especially for seniors.

A recent Swedish study found that even if you don’t start exercising until your senior years, physical activity is the number one contributor to longevity, adding extra years to your life.

People who exercise tend to have improved immune and digestive functioning, better blood pressure and bone density, and a lower risk of chronic diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, osteoporosis, and certain cancers.

In addition, regular exercise provides added benefits of enhanced mobility, flexibility, and balance, lowering the chance of injury.

But getting active is not just about adding years to your life, it’s about adding life to your years.

Regular exercise can help boost your energy, maintain your independence, protect your heart, and manage symptoms of illness or pain as well as your weight.

Getting your body moving is also good for your mind, memory, mood and mental health.

Exercise can also help to improve how well you sleep. Quality sleep is vital for overall health as you get older. Regular activity can help you fall asleep faster, sleep more deeply, and wake feeling more energetic and refreshed.

Keeping these multiple factors in mind, the people at St Basil’s NSW & ACT Aged Care find that a morning workout is a fantastic way for their residents to start their day.

Part of the Greek Orthodox Church in Australia, St Basil’s NSW & ACT is a registered Australian charity established specifically for the provision of best quality aged care services within a culturally appropriate environment designed to enhance the dignity, independence and quality of life of all people in its care.

“Residents enjoy daily their gentle exercise routine provided by our qualified physiotherapists and personal trainers,” explain the management at St. Basil’s NSW & ACT.

“The physiotherapists and personal trainers custom design the residents’ fitness programs by taking into consideration their unique circumstances, goals and individual needs.”

At St. Basil’s NSW & ACT, residents have access to a wide variety of our lifestyle activities to keep them active and help them socialize with others.

The residents can enjoy their exercise sessions indoors in the spacious living areas or in the fresh air outdoors in the secure and leafy courtyards on the grounds.

No matter your age or physical condition, it’s never too late to start exercising and get fit to reap all of the physical and mental health benefits of exercise.

With the advice of a qualified professional you can get started safely and find simple, enjoyable ways to become more active.

Originally published on Greek City Times