It also can help you control high blood pressure and diabetes and lower your risk for heart disease and osteoporosis. First, get your doctor's approval, then create an exercise plan. Some older adults prefer to exercise with other seniors in classes, like Good Shepherd's yoga or Tai Chi classes. Others find it helpful to visit a health club or YMCA, where certified trainers might be available. Still others prefer doing their own thing, like walking in their neighborhoods.
New guidelines say that frequency and duration of activity are more important than intensity.
Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes of activity most days of the week. If that's too much, then divide it into 10-minute sessions. Remember to record activities like vacuuming, and climbing the stairs-they count too. Too much of one exercise can cause injury and boredom. Invite a neighbor to join you at the pool, or bring a grandchild on your next walk.