As we get older our healthcare needs change. We are often less active, and our appetite can change as well. Seniors may also have multiple medical concerns, and working out the best exercise plan or diet can be daunting.

Exercise

Only around one in 10 Australians over the age of 50 exercises enough to gain any cardiovascular benefit. It’s been suggested that about half of the physical decline associated with old age may be due to a lack of physical activity.

Exercise offers many benefits for seniors:

• Increased muscle mass helps preserve healthy bone density
• Reduce the risk of bone loss and osteoporosis
• Improved cardio-respiratory fitness
• Makes joints supple and healthy
• Burns kilojoules and speeds the metabolism.

Some older people have chronic illnesses (such as severe arthritis, advanced cardiovascular disease or osteoporosis) or have been sedentary for a long time. This can limit your choice of physical activities. You should see your doctor, or work with a qualified exercise professional before you start any new exercise routine.
If you would like to impact your quality of life and ensure you age well book a consultation with an Ontrac Exercise Physiologist now. We’ll help you with a tailored program to help you keep moving and get fitter for all round good health or to treat specific medical conditions.

Diet

Giving your body the right nutrients and maintaining a healthy weight can help you stay active and independent. This is especially true if you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes or heart disease.
A decreasing appetite or reduced ability to buy and prepare healthy foods can mean that many seniors don’t get enough essential vitamins, mineral and fibre, and this can contribute to general un-wellness or exacerbate some chronic illnesses.

A nutritious diet can also have positive impact on:

• Bone health
• Arthritis
• Bowel and gut health
• Teeth and gums

If you are keen to improve your health or want to treat, manage or prevent chronic disease, book a consultation with an Ontrac Dietitian now. We’ll develop meal plans and guide lifestyle changes and even behavioural modifications to help you eat well maintain your health as you age.

What next?

The best thing to do is give us a call to get some guidance on the best next step for you based on your particular needs. Our friendly team is ready to help.
All patients under Medicare, or DVA claims will need a referral prior to attending an initial consultation.