Senior Health & Wellness

October 1, 2025
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How to get Seniors to do something positive for themselves is a good question. Those of us who are interested in our friends at Shepherd of Grace, have asked that question many times. The positive things I am talking about are the exercise programs offered in-house at no extra cost. All exercise is done
sitting in a chair.

The need for keeping fit as we age becomes more important, and the socialization that goes with exercise adds to our well-being. So, we are taking care of our bodies and minds.

I did something to improve myself today. We are fortunate to have therapy services on-site, and several of us have used the physical and occupational therapists. When we completed the sessions, the therapist encouraged us to continue the program. One great way to do that is by joining the exercise
groups to make it more fun.

Minnesota ranks 2 nd in the nation behind Wisconsin in fatal falls. That number is increasing as our 65 and older population grows. By 2030, one out of four adults will be over 65.

Research has shown that increases in physical inactivity contribute to a higher risk of falling. To show the importance of exercise health, insurance companies pay for programs that charge for participation, like fitness centers or gyms. If these companies can help keep claims down, because people are more fit, it is less likely that they will have to pay for injuries.

All seniors know that our agility lessens with age, and it is likely that this will impact our driving. One of the hardest decisions older adults face is when to quit driving, knowing that our life will change as we depend on others to provide a ride.

The hurdle in life is to stay mobile. This will fill the need for a more satisfying life. When we were younger, we heard the reference to the “Golden Years.” Now that we have arrived, we find the gold is tarnished. So, what we do – “Toughen Up.” After all, older age is not for sissies.

Many times, we are influenced by one another, so contact a friend here at Good Shepherd and join the exercise activity fun. It is more enjoyable with a friend; socialization is always a great part of the action.