At Amica, we develop innovative senior-fitness programs, including stretches, yoga, aerobics, cardio, and more to boost health and social connection — moves that seniors and caregivers can even try at home.
“Maintaining functional fitness is key for seniors to sustain their confidence and independence,” says Ashley Sumler, director, quality of life and resident experience, noting Amica’s personalized approach helps residents reach their goals. “For some people, that's being able to dance with their granddaughter at their wedding. For others, it's having the mobility to get on the shuttle bus so they can get to appointments.”
Exercise is also customized to physical and cognitive ability. Sumler explains: “We offer options each day such as seated Tai Chi, or a more active cardio routine.”
Keeping seniors active at home
Variety keeps fitness fresh, so Amica is always mixing up exercise options, such as ballroom dancing, Zumba, DrumFIT, pedalling Cubii ellipticals, and more. (Follow Amica Senior Lifestyles on Facebook and Instagram to see what we get up to.) Sumler recommends a similar approach and the following tips to help seniors stay fit at home, too:
- Get recommendations from your healthcare provider, and ensure rooms are safe for fitness by removing trip hazards and having a sturdy chair for balance nearby.
- Incorporate short activity periods into each day, such as dancing to music for 10 minutes. (Even grooving waist up in a chair is beneficial.)
- Lift light weights during TV shows, or get up and move during commercials.
- Search “seniors fitness” on YouTube to find free video workouts, some of which are seated for different mobility levels.
- Consider using a fitness tracker to encourage longer indoor or outdoor walks.
- Look online to find virtual fitness and fun activities in your region.
It’s never too late to start. “We have a resident in her nineties who was doing individual Pilates every morning before heading to the pool,” says Sumler. “But even residents who come to a fitness class and just tap their toes to the music are getting social benefits from participating.”
Schedule a tour to learn more about inspiring lifestyles for seniors, including exceptional dining, amenities, activities, and flexible, personalized care.