Exercise for elderly in nursing homes is often challenging, because they often have chronic conditions that make movement difficult. However, it is especially important that they get some form of exercise to help maintain or improve their range of motion. Gentle chair yoga can be a good solution. Chair yoga not only increases flexbility and strength, it can also help people relax and find peace of mind, which is important for good health and well-being.
10-minute Chair Yoga
Step 1
A simple and stable wooden chair works great for chair yoga. Photo Credit PhotoObjects.net/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
Sit in a chair and establish good posture for one minute to strengthen your core muscles. Your knees should be bent at a 45-degree angle and the feet should be placed flat on the ground. Engage your lower abdomen, stack your shoulders over your hips, relax your shoulders down your back and lift from the crown of your head. Maintain good posture throughout your workout.
Step 2
Gently stretch your side neck by placing your right hand on your left ear and letting your head fall toward your right shoulder for a few moments and then switch sides. Place both hands on the back of your head and gently let your head fall forward to stretch the back of your neck. Press your head into your hands and bring your elbows out to the sides and back to stretch your shoulders, arms and chest.