Embracing technology for senior health
In my role as a private practice physiotherapist, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful some of the new technology tools are in helping seniors optimize their health, especially when managing a chronic health condition. Wearable technology and virtual exercise classes are leading the technology trends for seniors. They are accessible tools that can be, and often are, tailored specifically to meet the needs of seniors. Here’s how I’ve seen these technological advancements enhance the fitness and wellness of my senior clients.
WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY
Wearable technology devices, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches, have become popular among adults of all ages, including seniors. This tech can be a real asset for those striving to live an active lifestyle. The devices come packed with features designed to monitor health and activity levels. Here are just a few of the features that some of my clients have used to stay on track with their goals:
■ Step counting and activity tracking – Equipped with pedometers, these wearables count things like steps and active minutes. This tracking can help encourage seniors to set (and achieve) daily goals. Many of my clients find this data helps them be mindful of integrating more walking into their regular routines.
■ Heart rate monitoring – Monitoring heart rate can be helpful for some seniors. Wearables provide real-time data, helping users adjust their activity intensity accordingly. While some of my clients
like this feature, it is important for seniors to work with a healthcare provider to understand their own data. Many medical conditions and medications can affect what the safe target zone might be.
■ Sleep monitoring – Analyzing sleep patterns through wearable devices can offer insights into how physical activity affects rest and overall well-being for seniors. Some of my clients find this helpful, while some find it stressful. So, it is important to consider if it’s a good option for you or not.
■ Reminders and alerts – Setting reminders for movement or hydration can significantly help us all maintain a healthy lifestyle. Many of us are well-intentioned when it comes to changing movement habits, but life is busy and it’s easy to forget. Gentle nudges from our devices throughout the day can be helpful reminders of what we mean to do.
VIRTUAL EXERCISE CLASSES: FITNESS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
On-screen exercise classes have been around for a long time. I can remember doing workouts following various VHS tapes in the living room with my mom in the 1990s. Much of this content moved online throughout the 2000s on various platforms. Some of the content requires a purchase, while some is offered free of charge. Current technology with smartphones, tablets and laptops makes it easy to take these programs with you wherever you go.
However, in my mind, the big difference now is the advent of interactive online fitness classes. When we developed the online Club Z Fitness Program for adults aged 55+, we knew that supervision by trained eyes like a physiotherapist during exercise can be the difference between a great workout and a workout that causes pain or injury. The arrival and wide adoption of Zoom technology has allowed providers like us to provide real-time feedback to participants during an exercise class, even when we are not in the same physical location. This is a game changer to allow participants, especially seniors who may have chronic health conditions or need specific adaptations, to exercise confidently and comfortably.
A development that is sometimes surprising is the community connection between participants we have seen form through the online Club Z Fitness Program. Having a regular connection to a group of peers with the shared interest of better health and wellbeing can go a long way to boosting mood and reducing feelings of loneliness, which are both issues seniors regularly face.
SAFETY FIRST
Of course, it is always a good idea for seniors to discuss any planned changes to their physical activity with a registered health-care provider. There are very few instances where increasing physical activity is not advisable. However, having professional guidance is critical to reducing the risk of injury.
The integration of wearable technology and virtual exercise classes offers seniors a comprehensive approach to maintaining an active lifestyle. These tools not only provide the means to track and encourage physical activity but also bring the benefits of exercise into the home, making fitness more accessible and enjoyable. By leveraging these technological solutions, seniors can improve their physical health, enjoy the social aspects of exercise and ultimately lead a more active and fulfilling life.
Laura Lundquist is a physiotherapist whose passion for healthy active aging prompted her to open Zoomers Physiotherapy and Health Solutions in Halifax. More information about Zoomers’ health care and fitness services can be found at www.zoomershealth.ca, www.club-z.ca or by calling 902-4531525. Located at 291 Horseshoe Lake Dr., Halifax.