Older adults can boost longevity 'with just a little exercise'

A stroll, some gentle gardening and many other light activities that lessen the time spent sitting, will benefit elderly people, says a new study.

Exercise can be very off putting and a gentle exercise class can sometimes be just what the doctor didn't order - not everyone likes  pulling on thera-bands, knee lifts, shoulder rolls or going on a pre planned 'health walk' to the post box and back. 

Everyone needs to be in control, and for many just a small increase in activity, like
re-arranging the dust, walking from room to room, marching the feet when watching the TV or dancing to a song on the radio is enough to promote mobility. 

We have all been guilty of making life easier for those we love and care for- taking their empty cup to the sink, picking up the post or sweeping the floor - but while we do these small tasks we are not only taking away their independence but reducing their daily activity. When I was training someone said to me 'if the heaviest thing anyone ever picks up is a tea cup then that is all they will be able to lift' . 

Using a hand held vacuum to pick up the biscuit crumbs on the sofa, deadheading the flowers and leaving the washed dishes to drain might be just what the doctor ordered!