Exercise is widely acknowledged as a pathway to improved physical and mental health. Reduced vulnerability to disease, lower risk for broken bones thanks to improved bone density and strength, and improved mood are just some of the many benefits attributed to regular exercise. Indeed, exercise is vital to people of all ages, including seniors.
Seniors can benefit from routine exercise, but they may need to navigate working out differently than their younger counterparts. That’s because prescription drug use is much higher among older adults compared to younger demographics. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 89 percent of adults age 65 and older take prescription medication. That’s notable because prescription medication can produce side effects that must be taken into consideration when designing and performing an exercise regimen. Seniors taking prescription medication who want to exercise can consider these strategies to ensure their workouts are safe.
- Open a dialogue with your physician(s).
The first step seniors must take is to open a dialogue with any physician who is currently prescribing them medicine. Physicians will be familiar with the potential side effects of medications they prescribe and are great resources who can share information about what seniors can expect while taking a given medicine. Physicians can discuss patients› intended workout schedules and may recommend taking medications at certain times of day so workout routines go as smoothly as possible.
- Consider low-exertion exercises.
The Mayo Clinic notes that opioids slow breathing and heart rate. Breathing less means the body takes in less oxygen, and that in turn means less oxygen is available for muscles. This can adversely affect endurance, and seniors taking opioids may find they tire quickly or cannot exercise with the intensity they›re accustomed to. In such instances, seniors can consider low-exertion exercises such as walking so they can still get the benefits of physical activity while taking the medications their doctors prescribe.
- Work out with a friend.
The buddy system has long been touted as a great way to maintain exercise motivation, but working out with a friend also is beneficial for seniors taking medication who don›t necessarily need a companion to keep them on track. Exercising with a workout buddy can ensure someone is there to point out any side effects that individuals may not feel themselves or may feel but write off as harmless consequences of breaking a sweat. A workout buddy can report when a pal looks flushed or seems off in some other way. Of course, working out with a friend also ensures someone is there to call for help in the case of an emergency.
Seniors have much to gain from exercising regularly. However, older adults taking prescription medications must be mindful of the potential side effects of their medicines and keep an eye out for any warning signs that they could be in danger.
