Why the Elderly Should Exercise

Movement is important at every age, but it becomes especially valuable as we grow older. For people living with limited mobility, regular exercise can help ease stiffness, strengthen muscles, and support both body and mind. This guide looks at why movement matters, what activities are possible from a chair or bed, and how to gently encourage someone to get started—safely and at their own pace.

Why Movement Helps as We Get Older

As we age, muscles naturally weaken and joints can start to feel stiff or painful. Keeping active helps reduce these symptoms. It can also lower the risk of certain health conditions such as osteoporosis—especially in women going through or beyond menopause.

Even small, gentle exercises can help. Regular movement supports:

• Stronger muscles and better posture
• Improved balance and coordination
• Reduced aches, stiffness and pain
• Lower risk of falls
• Better circulation and digestion
• A lift in mood and mental wellbeing

These benefits apply whether the person is walking, stretching in a chair, or moving their arms and legs in bed.

Adapting Exercises to the Person

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to physical activity. Some people might be able to manage a walk, a swim, or a tai chi class. Others might need exercises they can do from a seated position—or even lying down.

The important thing is to build a routine that suits the person’s ability and energy levels. Start slowly, keep it short, and give them time to get used to it. If they live with long-term health conditions or reduced mobility, it’s always best to get advice from a GP or Physiotherapist before starting anything new.

In-Chair and In-Bed Activities

For someone who finds it hard to get up and about, gentle exercises from a chair or bed can still offer real value. Some ideas include:

From a chair:

• Shoulder rolls
• Arm lifts or circles
• Marching the legs gently
• Ankle circles or heel taps

From bed:

• Toe points and ankle movements
• Arm stretches across the body
• Bending and straightening the knees
• Gentle neck turns

Repetition matters more than intensity. Regular, simple movements—even just 5 or 10 minutes at a time—can help the person stay more comfortable and mobile.

Encouraging Someone to Join In

Not everyone will feel keen to do exercises, especially if they’re in pain, tired, or unsure what’s involved. But a little encouragement can go a long way.

Try:

• Talking through the benefits clearly and simply
• Joining in together, if you can
• Putting on music they enjoy
• Making it part of a familiar routine

A warm, encouraging tone helps more than pressure. It’s about building confidence and helping them feel in control of what they can do.

Movement Supports Confidence and Mood

As well as improving strength and balance, movement can also boost confidence—especially for someone who’s had a fall or is nervous about walking. Over time, people often feel more steady and capable.

Exercise also helps with mental wellbeing. It releases endorphins—‘feel-good’ chemicals in the brain—that can help ease low mood or anxiety. It’s not just about staying fit, but feeling better too.

A Safe Start: Check First and Use Support

Before starting a new activity, always check with a health professional if the person has any medical conditions or reduced mobility. If doing any standing exercises, begin with a stable support like a chair or kitchen counter. As confidence grows, they may be able to reduce this—but safety always comes first.

Supporting Movement, Your Way

Every bit of movement helps. Whether it’s a full seated routine or a few stretches in bed, what matters most is consistency, comfort, and confidence. With patience and the right encouragement, staying active can feel achievable again—no matter someone’s age or ability.