As a caregiver, I always try to encourage my care recipients in a healthy lifestyle; including diet and exercise. But I know that for seniors in particular, it can be a challenge to keep up an exercise program, because of the physical stress that is involved; despite the fact that seniors know just how beneficial it is too their health, they can find it physical trying. I’ve learned that the right incentives need to be put in place to keep a senior active, and I won’t deny that I’ve resorted to techniques like telling a senior that we will go for a walk, and then return home to sit down and watch a favorite show or movie and snack on a favorite food. When it comes to promoting a healthy lifestyle, whatever works, right?

The AARP clearly knows that encouraging seniors in regular exercise requires some sort of incentive program to act as motivation, and I was excited to learn about their new Get Fit on Route 666. It encourages seniors to exercise, using a fitness journal recording program online that also provides them with rewards for completing different milestones and exercising in general. Seniors are rewarded with knowledge about American history, nutrition tips and encouraging remarks to keep them on track with their fitness regiment. I think this is a fantastic program that can help many seniors and their caregivers, and much healthier than resorting to ice cream as a way for rewarding seniors for bursts of activity!

Sources:

1. AARP
2. Austin American Statesman

Image Source pro.corbis.com

Home Care Central Phoenix and Home Care Greater Phoenix provides elder care and senior care in Phoenix. Call us today at 623-583-5868, 602-265-8228 or 480-991-3959.