How should elderly people with chronic diseases exercise
With the improvement of living standards, people's lifestyles have changed significantly, leading to the inability of the human body to adapt, which is why chronic diseases are also called lifestyle diseases. From the perspective of human evolution, humans used to be in a state of hunger, so according to the law of survival of the fittest, the "excellent" human races with "frugality" genes survived. However, now that material life is abundant, people with "frugality" genes are more prone to obesity, leading to the occurrence of many chronic diseases.
Studies have shown that: Proper physical exercise has a good impact on enhancing cardiovascular function, improving physiological functions of middle-aged and elderly people, preventing diseases, delaying aging, and improving adaptability and work capacity to the external environment. However, unreasonable physical exercise not only fails to achieve the desired results, but may also affect physical health. Elderly people with chronic diseases should be especially cautious when exercising.
【Precautions for elderly people with chronic diseases when exercising】
1. Elderly people with cardiovascular diseases
They can engage in gentle exercises such as Tai Chi, walking, etc., but it is better not to engage in vigorous activities such as swimming, playing ball, running, etc. They should carry emergency medicines such as nitroglycerin during exercise and avoid exercising alone. If symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, and chest tightness occur during exercise, they should immediately stop exercising, rest in place, and take the emergency medication they carry.
2. Elderly people with high blood pressure
They should ensure that their blood pressure is well controlled before exercising, and try to keep it around 130/80mmHg. Patients should choose gentle exercises such as walking, Tai Chi, etc., and avoid exercises that may cause high blood pressure, such as weightlifting, breath holding, etc.
3. Elderly people with diabetes
They should avoid excessive exercise intensity and generally stick to their usual level of physical activity. They should avoid exercising when blood sugar is above 14mmol/l, on an empty stomach, or at the peak of the hypoglycemic effect of medication. They should carry some biscuits or candies in their pockets and take them immediately if symptoms of hypoglycemia such as palpitations, dizziness, and cold sweats occur. At the same time, these individuals should wear loose and comfortable shoes and socks, and take good care of their feet during exercise.
4. Elderly people with cervical spondylosis or lumbar disc herniation
They should avoid excessive stretching, and their daily activities and exercises should involve gentle movements. They should avoid carrying weight on their neck and waist. If symptoms such as neck and waist fatigue, numbness and pain in the hands and legs, dizziness, and unsteady walking occur, they should rest immediately. If the symptoms persist after resting, they should seek medical attention promptly.
5. Elderly people with degenerative osteoarthritis
Elderly people with this disease often have osteoporosis. They should engage in moderate strength training, weight-bearing aerobic exercise, and flexibility training, such as walking, yoga, Tai Chi, Five Animal Exercises, Eight Pieces of Brocade, and avoid activities that can harm the joints, such as climbing stairs, running, and cycling. Proper exercise can not only prevent the occurrence of degenerative osteoarthritis and osteoporosis but also have a therapeutic effect on diseases.
