As the saying goes, health is wealth. And in today’s fast-paced world, we often tend to overlook our health and take it for granted. But did you know that a simple 10-minute walk daily could extend your life, even at 85 years old?.

The Benefits of Walking

Walking is the simplest, most cost-effective, and easiest way to maintain or improve your health regardless of your age and fitness level. It offers numerous physical and mental benefits, including the following:.

Physical Benefits

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health: Walking daily could help decrease blood pressure and cholesterol levels, thus making your heart stronger and healthier.

2. Helps Lose Or Maintain Weight: Walking is an excellent way to burn calories and improve your metabolism, making it easier to lose or maintain weight.

3. Increases Strength and Flexibility: Walking helps provide both strength and flexibility to your body’s muscles and joints, making it a low-impact way to build your body’s foundation.

4. Lowers The Risk of Chronic Diseases: Walking can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

Mental Benefits

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Walking can be an effective stress-reliever that helps reduce anxiety and improve overall mental health.

2. Improves Cognitive Function: Walking can improve your memory and cognitive function by boosting the flow of oxygen to your brain, thus leading to better concentration and mental clarity.

3. Boosts Mood: Walking also serves as an effective mood booster that releases ‘feel-good’ endorphins in your brain.

4. Promotes Better Sleep: Walking in natural light helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, boosting melatonin levels and promoting a better night’s sleep.

10 Minutes Walking Daily Could Extend Your Life

So, what is the right amount of time needed to walk daily to extend your life? According to a large study by the American Cancer Society (ACS), adults who walk at a leisurely pace for less than two hours per week still have lower mortality rates than those who are inactive.

The ACS study concluded that adding even just 10 minutes of walking to your daily routine could significantly lower your risk of premature death, regardless of factors like age, gender, or body mass index (BMI).

The study reinforces the benefits of physical activity and suggests that “any level of activity” that involves just 10 minutes of walking daily is a good start towards a healthy lifestyle.

Walking at 85 Years Old

Many seniors tend to be inactive due to health and mobility issues, but walking can be the perfect way to incorporate moderate physical activity into a senior’s daily routine.

Although 85 years old may seem like an age where physical activity is not feasible, research has shown that a structured walking program can significantly improve functional status, mobility, and endurance in older adults.

According to the National Institute of Health, walking regularly in older adults can help prevent or delay physical disability and improve overall health and quality of life.

Tips for Walking at 85 Years Old

If you’re a senior and want to incorporate walking as a part of your daily routine, here are some tips to help you get started:.

1. Consult Your Doctor: Before starting any exercise program, it’s essential to consult your doctor to make sure that it’s safe for you to undertake a walking routine.

2. Walking Buddy: You may find it easier to stick to a walking routine if you have a walking buddy. This can make the daily walk much more enjoyable and can provide motivation and support.

3. Choose A Comfortable Route: For seniors who may have mobility issues or other health problems, it’s important to choose a comfortable walking route that’s safe, flat, and easy to navigate.

4. Start Slow and Gradual: For those who are new to walking, it’s best to start slow and gradually increase your speed and duration over time.

5. Comfortable Walking Shoes: It’s important to wear comfortable walking shoes that provide maximized support and cushioning and can reduce any discomfort or pain caused by walking.

Conclusion

A simple 10-minute walk daily could extend your life even at the age of 85. Walking offers numerous physical and mental benefits that can help enhance your overall health and well-being.

If you’re a senior and want to start walking, be sure to follow the above tips to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable walk daily.

By maintaining an active lifestyle involving walking, seniors can improve their quality of life and live longer.