You may have heard the term “runner’s high.” It describes the good feeling that many people have when they exercise. There are a lot of theories about why it happens. Some say runner’s high is caused by endorphins, while others argue that it has more to do with neurotransmitters. Still others say it might have something to do with an increase in body temperature. Whatever the cause of the phenomenon, new research says that exercising could help reduce the risk of depression no matter what a person’s age.

Exercise and Depression Study

A team of researchers recently reviewed data collected from approximately 267,000 people from North America that had been involved in 49 studies. The study participants had not been diagnosed with any kind of mental illness. At least seven years-worth of data was available on each of them.

The purpose of the study wasn’t to show that exercise reduces depression, but the researchers did discover a link. The data showed that people who were physically active had less risk for depression. And, they observed this effect across all age groups.

The study is important because it is the first global review that shows a link between exercise and the risks for developing depression regardless of age or location. The researchers say it provides more compelling evidence that people should participate in some form of physical activity regularly.

Easy Ways for Seniors to Exercise

Although researchers aren’t sure how much exercise it takes to reduce depression risks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does provide recommendations for the amount of exercise older adults need for good health. They say that older adults should get at least 150 minutes of exercise each week. In addition, they should do strengthening exercises on at least two days of the week.

Senior care can help your aging relative to be more physically active in these simple ways:

• A senior care provider can go for walks with the older adult, offering them a supporting arm, companionship, and a reassurance of safety.
• A senior care provider can garden with an older adult, which is a great form of physical activity that doesn’t feel like exercise.
• A senior care provider can supervise while your family member exercises at home, using a treadmill, an exercise video, or whatever form they choose.
• A senior care provider can drive to group fitness classes or the gym.
• When driving the older adult to the grocery store, appointments, or other places, a senior care provider can park the car further away from the door so that the older adult walks longer distances.

No matter what form of physical activity your aging relative enjoys, a senior care provider can monitor to ensure they remain safe. Just having someone present can make seniors feel more comfortable about being active.

Sources

https://www.webmd.com/depression/news/20180425/exercise-your-blues-away
https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/older_adults/index.htm
https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/runners-high-is-it-for-real#1

If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Cinco Ranch, TX, please call the caring staff at At Your Side Home Care. We will answer all of your senior care questions. Call today: (832) 271-1600.

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Donna Wrabel, LMSW

Co-Owner at At Your Side Home Care

For most of us, the word "home" evokes warm feelings of comfort, security and well-being. For older adults, home also means holding tight to cherished memories and maintaining self-esteem and independence. When illness, injury or age make life a little more challenging, remaining at home in a comfortable, familiar environment encourages recovery and enhances the quality of life. Home can be defined as a private residence, an independent or assisted living facility or even a short term stay in the hospital, we recognize the additional benefits provided by a personal, professional assistant.

Our Certified Nurse Aides, 24-Hour Live-in Assistants and Home Health Aides are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We also provide the security and confidence of 24-hour Telephone Assistance, so fast, reliable help is always available when it's needed. To learn more about our homecare services see our homecare services page.

Different people need different levels of homecare. To meet the requirements of our clients, At Your Side Homecare maintains consistent staffing levels of caring professionals. Homecare service is available for as little as a few hours a week, or as many as 24 hours a day, seven days a week

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