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Exercise tips for seniors

It's important for people of all ages, especially seniors, to stay active. According to the Centers for Disease Control, being physically active can reduce your risk of dying from heart disease and decreases the risk for colon cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Physical activity also helps control weight; contributes to healthy bones, muscles, and joints; relieves the pain of arthritis; and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression.

There's no better time than now to start exercising. Be sure to check with your doctor before increasing your physical activity, especially if you have a chronic disease or family history of chronic disease, chest pain, shortness of breat, high blood presure, asthma, diabetes, blood clots, infections or fever, joint swelling, hip surgery, or a hernia.

— Don't just jump into a fitness routine. First, stretch your arms, legs, and back. Start off slowly, gradually increasing the pace of your exercise. Don't do too much too soon or you will hurt yourself. For example, the AARP suggests starting with 10 minutes of walking before going to 20 and then 30 minutes.

— Exercise should make you feel better, not worse. A little soreness, discomfort, or fatigue is normal. Listen to your body — if you feel lightheaded, a shortness of breath, sudden, severe headache, are sweating excessively, or have pains in the chest, stomach, or anywhere else, stop exercising and contact your doctor.

— Wear the proper protective equipment for your activity. If you are biking, wear a helmet.

— Watch out for the elements. If it's hot, exercise in the early morning or early evening when it's cooler, or stay in the shade and wear lightweight clothing. If it's cold, dress in layers and be careful of ice and snow.

— Stay hydrated when you are engaging in physical activity. Drink before, during, and after exercise.

— A cool down is just as important as a warm up. Stretch your arms, legs, and back.

Seniors

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who receive delivered meals and those who dine here.

Jeremy Armstrong, St. Luke Hospital administrator brought an overview of what is available locally in the health care field.

Come join us on Senior Center Day. The program will be a video of the recent Marion High School Junior-Senior Prom activities.

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