Exercise Classes for Older People: Worries, Answered

Exercise classes for older people, like chair exercise, tai chi, water exercise, balance classes, and walking groups, combine safe, guided movement with something many seniors miss: other people. Most parents who resist going aren't against exercise. They're worried about being too old or out of shape, getting hurt, or not fitting in. Most of those worries have simple answers. Classes designed for older adults start where your parent is, and the hardest part is usually the ride and the first visit.

Dad's physical therapist said he'd benefit from a group exercise class. Dad's answer: "I'm not going to some gym full of young people in tight clothes." You suspect he's also worried he won't be able to keep up.

Worry: "I'm too old or out of shape."

Classes for older adults are built for exactly that. Many are done seated, start slowly, and let everyone go at their own pace. Strength and balance can improve at any age. For a parent starting from very little, see gentle exercise for older adults.

Worry: "Everyone will be fitter than me."

Senior classes include people with walkers, people recovering from surgery, and people who haven't exercised in decades. Instructors usually offer easier and harder versions of each move.

Worry: "I'll get hurt."

Look for classes led by instructors trained to work with older adults, with chairs or rails nearby. Get the doctor's OK first, and start with the easier version of each move. A physical therapist can suggest what to avoid. See exercise stability: what to ask a provider.

Worry: "I can't get there."

This is often the real reason. Some senior centers offer rides, and other options exist too. See elder transportation services in Utah.

Worry: "It costs too much."

Many classes at senior centers are free or low cost, and some Medicare Advantage plans include fitness benefits. Ask before you sign up.

Worry: "I have a health condition."

Many classes are designed for people with arthritis, heart disease, Parkinson's, or balance problems. Ask the instructor, and get the doctor's OK first.

Kinds of classes to try

• Chair exercise: strength and flexibility, done seated or with chair support.
• Tai chi: slow, flowing movements that build balance.
• Water exercise: easy on the joints, at community pools.
• Balance and fall prevention classes, like A Matter of Balance. See fall prevention programs.
• Chair yoga and stretching.
• Walking groups.
• Line dancing, for fun and memory as well as fitness.

Senior centers, city recreation centers, community pools, and some hospitals offer classes. See local senior centers in Utah. For every exercise option compared, see senior exercises: how to choose the right program.

Questions to ask before signing up

• Is the class designed for older adults?
• Is it seated, standing, or both?
• What training does the instructor have?
• What does it cost, and is a trial class available?
• Is there parking close to the door, or a ride?

Make the first class easy

• Go with your parent, or send someone they're comfortable with.
• Arrive early, and introduce your parent to the instructor.
• Bring water, and wear supportive shoes and comfortable clothes.
• Agree to try three classes before deciding.

Where help at home fits

Our Care Professionals help your parent get to class and keep going. They drive your parent there and back, go in with them the first few times, and help them settle in, so you don't have to leave work. At home, they support the exercises from your parent's physical therapy plan, stand by for balance, and help keep the routine on schedule. See how everyday help at home works.

What to do next

1. Get the doctor's OK.
2. Ask your parent which worry is the real one.
3. Find a class designed for older adults, and ask about a trial.
4. Plan the ride, and go with them the first time.
5. Look at all our home care services, or see your exact price in 30 seconds.

Need help for someone in your family? See your price in 30 seconds, or call us to talk it through.

This article is general information, not medical, legal, or financial advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your situation.