Flowers are budding, warmer days are more frequent, and the days are (thankfully) getting longer. Springtime is here, and with it a renewed desire to get out and move. However after a long winter hibernation filled with cozy nights in getting back into a regular routine of moving can be difficult. Some people find fitness classes helpful, others enjoy getting out for leisurely walks with loved ones, and some people love to swim. No matter what kind of physical activity you prefer, the most important and difficult part of any fitness routine is consistency. Enter wearable health trackers. Once thought of as solely for the younger generation, these devices now offer significant benefits for seniors. This blog will explore the many ways that wearable health trackers can aid in maintaining motivation, monitoring heart health, and fostering social connections. As well as ending with some recommendations for good wearable health trackers.
Motivation to Move:
Maintaining regular exercise can be a daunting task for seniors. Yet, physical activity is essential for preserving mobility, preventing falls, and maintaining overall health. Wearable health trackers provide a motivational boost by gamifying exercise and helping set personalized goals.
Imagine your parent receiving encouraging notifications upon reaching daily step targets or completing workout sessions. It's akin to having a personal cheerleader, encouraging them to remain active and engaged. Moreover, many trackers offer reminders to encourage movement if they've been sedentary for too long, promoting activity throughout the day.
Heart Rate Tracking:
As people age, monitoring heart health becomes increasingly vital, especially for those with cardiovascular conditions. Wearable health trackers equipped with heart rate monitoring capabilities offer valuable insights and can detect irregularities or abnormal patterns. Newer (and admittedly more expensive) smart watches even offer EKG technology!
By tracking heart rate trends over time, seniors and their caregivers can identify potential issues early and take proactive measures, such as adjusting medication, seeking medical advice, or making lifestyle changes. Additionally, monitoring heart rate during exercise sessions ensures seniors optimize workouts while staying within safe limits.
Social Connection:
Many trackers feature options for sharing activity updates with friends and participating in group challenges or competitions. The options are virtually endless but can include things like joining a virtual walking group with friends from across the country or engaging in friendly step competitions with their grandchildren or homecare caregiver. These features not only encourage physical activity but also promote social engagement and connectedness.
Wearable health trackers are more than just devices – they're invaluable tools that empower aging loved ones to prioritize their health and well-being. From motivating them to exercise, to monitoring heart health, and fostering social connections, these devices offer numerous benefits. Consider gifting your parent the tool of health and independence with a wearable health tracker. After all, staying active, maintaining health, and nurturing connections are keys to living life fully at any age.
Check out this helpful blog to identify which smartwatch or fitness tracker is right for you.
If you would like to learn more about how we at Homewatch CareGivers of Crystal Lake can help you will all of your elder care needs, please reach out here!
