The Importance of Exercise in the Elderly: A Key to Healthy Ageing in Salisbury & Andover
Published: 26/08/2025
As we grow older, staying active becomes more important than ever. At Right at Home Salisbury & Andover, we see the difference that regular movement can make every day. Whether it’s a short walk through Hudson’s Field, light gardening in a Salisbury allotment, or gentle chair-based stretches at home, exercise is one of the most powerful tools for healthy ageing.
Why Is Exercise So Important for Older Adults?
As we age, changes to our muscles, bones, and joints can affect strength, balance, and flexibility. But consistent, age-appropriate physical activity can help slow these changes and offer a wide range of benefits:
1. Maintains Strength and Mobility
Regular exercise helps preserve muscle tone and joint movement, making everyday tasks like getting dressed, walking, or going up stairs easier and safer.
2. Reduces the Risk of Falls
Falls are a leading cause of injury among older people in Wiltshire and Hampshire. Movement helps improve balance and coordination, making falls less likely at home or while out in the community.
3. Supports Heart and Lung Health
Even low-impact activities like walking or stretching can promote better circulation, lung capacity, and cardiovascular strength.
4. Boosts Mental Health and Brain Function
Exercise releases endorphins that reduces stress and improves mood. It also supports cognitive health and memory, which is especially important for those living with dementia or mild cognitive impairment.
5. Improves Sleep and Appetite
Many older adults experience changes in sleep or eating habits. Regular movement can naturally improve these rhythms, leading to more energy and better wellbeing.
What Types of Exercise Are Best fot Older Adults?
Exercise doesn't need to be intense to be effective. Our Care Assistants in Salisbury, Andover and surrounding villages support a wide range of safe and enjoyable movement options, including:
- Walking: A low-impact way to boost heart health and maintain mobility. Local parks like Churchill Gardens and Victoria Park offer scenic routes for strolls.
- Chair-Based Exercises: Perfect for those with limited mobility. These include leg lifts, shoulder rolls, and arm stretches.
- Dancing: Moving to favourite music boosts mood and coordination. Even seated dancing can be a fun way to stay active.
- Tai Chi or Balance Training: These gentle, flowing movements improve balance, reduce stress, and build strength.
- Gardening or Housework: Light chores or outdoor pottering in the garden helps keep muscles active while offering daily purpose.
- Swimming or Water Aerobics: Local leisure centres like Five Rivers in Salisbury or Andover Leisure Centre offer low-impact aqua classes ideal for joint health.
Always consult a GP before starting a new exercise routine, especially if managing a medical condition.
How We Can Help at Right at Home Salisbury & Andover
At Right at Home Salisbury & Andover, we understand the value of movement in promoting independence and confidence. Our trained Care Assistants help Clients stay active in a way that suits them best:
- Accompanying Clients on walks or outings
- Supporting gentle stretches or exercise routines
- Encouraging movement through hobbies and daily routines
- Providing mobility support and encouragement
Even small, consistent efforts can lead to greater wellbeing, improved balance, and enhanced quality of life.
Every Step Counts
It's never too late to move more. With the right encouragement and support, older adults in Salisbury, Andover, Amesbury, Downton, Wilton and surrounding villages can enjoy the physical, emotional and cognitive benefits of regular activity, right in their own home or local community.
Whether it's a stroll through the park, light gardening, or just getting up and stretching, every step counts.
Need a Helping Hand?
If you or a loved on could benefit from gentle encouragement and support with physical activity at home, we're here to help.
Call Right at Home Salisbury & Andover on 01722435615
Supporting Salisbury, Andover, and surrounding areas with personalised, movement-friendly care.
