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As our body ages and changes, it's important to keep active for its numerous health and mental benefits. This summer, you can put your health first and try out new, easy, and low-impact exercises that can help you become the best version of yourself.
For older adults, it can be difficult getting started if it’s something new or getting back into it after a break or injury. Clickhereto read the Australian guidelines for physical activity.
The summer can be a great time to get started or get back into it, with longer days and warm evenings. It’s also important to ensure you’re putting summer safety first. With your body temperature taking longer to adjust with age, you need to ensure you aren’t spending too much time outside and risking overheating.
Here are some ways to keep safe and make the most of the summer sun:
Prioritise hydration
Hydration is crucial for staying cool and safe throughout the summer. With the effects of the heat, some medications can also increase the risk of dehydration. Beat this by increasing your water intake, and prioritising fruits and vegetables with a high-water content; summer produce like watermelon and cucumber are perfect for this!
Enjoy morning and evening walks
Beat the heat with early morning walks or make the most of the longer days with an evening walk. Walking is a great, low-impact activity with many benefits for you as you age, like:
Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes of walking every day to maximise its benefits.
Cool off with swimming
Swimming is a great way to remain outside and cool, offering a full-body workout that can help improve your flexibility, strength and cardiovascular health. Your local community centre/gym will typically provide accessible and affordable options for pool access throughout the year.
Programs to help you get active
The Seniors Wellbeing and Social Group is a great way to get active for a healthy mind and body. Join us for weekly facilitator-led classes, including dance, art, movement, and games.
Get ready to have fun and exercise!
CatholicCare Sydney is offering the Liverpool Seniors Wellbeing and Social Group. This is a FREE program designed for over-65s to socialise while enjoying the benefits of physical activity.
This program will run for the remainder of 2025 and recommence in January 2026.
To register or find out more, call Julia on 0438 157 395, or visit:
https://www.catholiccare.org/senior-services/well-being-group/