Exercise Tips for Seniors





Before we begin, please note that If you have a family history of heart disease, check with your doctor first. It is a good idea to have a physical examination and take a graded exercise test before you start an exercise program.

Pick rhythmic, repetitive activities that challenge the circulatory system and exercise at intensity appropriate for you.

Choose activities that are fun, suit your needs and that you can do year-round.

Wear comfortable clothing and footwear appropriate for the temperature, humidity and activity.

If you decide that walking is a great activity for you, choose a place that has a smooth, soft surface; that does not intersect with traffic; is well lighted and safe. Many senior Americans walk at area shopping malls.

Find a companion to exercise with you if it will help you stay on a regular schedule and add to your enjoyment.

Because muscular adaptation and elasticity generally slows with age, take more time to warm up and cool down while exercising. Make sure you stretch slowly.

Start exercising at a low intensity, especially if you have been mostly sedentary, and progress gradually.

A Bonus:  The Secret to a Sharp Mind

In addition to all the other benefits of exercise, the secret to a sharp mind just might lie in your feet as well! Studies show those who took a 30-minute brisk walk three days a week had sharper memories. This is what scientists refer to as "executive functions". They are the ability to plan, organize and juggle mental tasks. Similar results exist in non-depressed individuals. Some mental decline is associated with normal aging due to reduced blood flow to the brain. Experts believe exercise may work by improving circulation to essential areas.

Added Motivation:

In a study of more than 13,000, the risk of breaking a hip was nearly 30-percent lower among those who take a brisk walk two to four times a week than in sedentary individuals. Those who went from being moderately or vigorously active to being sedentary doubled their risk.
Talk a walk!

Specials for seniors

  • multichoice-smallRetirement Villages can negotiate special MNET subscription fees for its residents.
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  • South African Senior Citizens (60 years and over) until 30 February 2010: R74.00 for a return ticket(normal fare R145.00) on presentation of a valid South African ID document.
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  • Alexander Forbes has tailor made insurance products for seniors at special rates.

    forbes-small

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  • sabc-smallThe SABC gives a rebate to pensioners aged 70 and over on the annual TV Licence Fee.
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  • These specials are for the Cape Town area only.

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  • AVIS offers a 20% discount on any group of car hire to all seniors that are 65 and older
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  • Ster Kinekor gives Senior Citizens aged 60 and over a 50 % discount on all shows on weekdays up to and including the 5.30 one, and on Saturdays and Sundays.
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  • SAARP has negotiated special deals for its members.
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  • dion-smallStores across the country offer senior citizens over 60 special discounts...

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  • Transnet's Shosholoza offers seniors 60 years and older a 25% discount.
    (proof of age is required and senior citizens must have their identity document with them when travelling).
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  • If you are over the age of 60, your annual AA Membership will be R497.50.
    Senior Service Automobile Association | AA South Africa
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  • hertz-smallHertz offers discounts of up 15% to over 55's
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  • game-smallStores across the country offer senior citizens of  65 and over a 10% discount on all purchases made on a Wednesday, excluding items already discounted as special offers.
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  • rci-smallFor Pensioners only there is a 10% discount on 141 exchanges or 20 % discount on Bonus for midweeks at selected resorts. Terms and conditions apply.
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  • postofficeThe Post Office defines a pensioner as someone over 60. A pensioner holding a Postbank account gets the full concession. This is bigger than for someone who does not hold a Postbank account.
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  • Starlight cruises offers the following to all Senior Citizens: 20% discount on cruises from 2 to 4 nights. 10% discount on cruises 5 nights and longer.
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  • Orion-Hotels 

    Orion Hotels give Senior Citizens aged 60 and over a 40% discount on Bed and Breakfast rates per person, per night at all Orion Hotels.

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  • telkom-smallTelkom has a special for pensioners aged 70 and over:

     

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  • greyhound-smallGreyhound offers a 5% discount to all seniors older than 60 able to produce a valid ID or Senior Citizen card. 
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  • Intercape offers a 15% discount on Flexi and Full fares to all seniors over the age of 60  
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  • Nu Metro gives Senior Citizens aged 60 and over a 50 % discount on all shows on weekdays up to and including the 5.30 one, and on Saturdays and Sundays.
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