Stay Active, Stay Healthy

Meridian Life Fitness offers many programs for older adults to stay active and healthy.

Can your weekly bridge group or volunteer activity help you stay healthy? It just might. In one study of more than 2,700 adults age 65 and older, scientists found that those who stayed busy and involved lived longer than those who were less active. And researchers found that activities such as playing games, traveling, cooking, and shopping were as effective as a wide variety of exercises for increasing longevity.

Meridian Life Fitness offers access to a full range of fitness and wellness programs, available at four convenient locations. "At Meridian Life Fitness, we offer a variety of classes for those 65 and older, including classes affiliated with the Arthritis Foundation," says Karen Kavanagh. "We also offer personal training, so you can have fun and exercise while doing what benefits you the most."

Even if arthritis, asthma, or another chronic condition has slowed you down, there's still a lot of activity — and fun — to be had. "Being active can make a huge difference in the quality of your life," says Karen.

Here are some suggestions from Karen of how to be more active:

• Grow a garden. It's good exercise and helps you stay productive.
• Take a yoga or tai chi class. Both kinds of exercise have been shown to reduce stress and lower high blood pressure.
• Invite someone to take a trip to the park or zoo, or go see a matinee.
• Go fishing, golfing, or dancing with a friend.
• Find a neighbor who likes to walk at the same pace you do, and take 10-minute walks when you can.
• Play cards, bingo, or other games.
• Cheer for your grandchildren or your neighbor's children at their soccer games.
• Volunteer with a local group.
• Invite a friend to come over and watch your favorite TV show.
• Rediscover an old hobby or find a new one.