5 Practical Fitness Tips for Older Adults at Home

Staying fit is important at any age. For older adults, maintaining strength, flexibility, and mobility supports independence and overall wellbeing. As experienced home care providers, Caring Care encourages safe and accessible ways to stay active at home.

Adapted from expert guidance, including NHS physical activity advice for older adults, here are five simple tips to help you or a loved one stay fit while receiving care at home.

1. Make the Decision to Begin

Getting started is often the hardest part. Setting a small, achievable goal — such as a five-minute stretch or a walk to the end of the garden — can help create momentum.

Tip: Speak with a carer or family member who can help encourage and support regular activity.

2. Choose Activities You Enjoy

Exercise should feel good. Whether it is dancing in the living room, light gardening, or a gentle walk, pick activities that are enjoyable and safe.

Enjoyment leads to consistency. Even low-impact movement can improve mood, coordination, and circulation.

3. Use Online Resources for Gentle Home Exercise

There are many accessible exercise videos tailored to older adults. Look for options such as:

• NHS Fitness Studio — including seated exercises
• Age UK activity advice for over-60s
• YouTube channels with chair-based workouts or balance routines for seniors

Always choose videos from trusted organisations and stop if anything feels uncomfortable.

4. Mix It Up and Stay Consistent

A varied routine keeps it interesting and supports overall health:

• Aerobic activity (e.g. walking indoors or outdoors)
• Strength training (e.g. using light weights or resistance bands)
• Flexibility and balance exercises (e.g. stretching, standing on one foot)

Adults over 65 should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, as recommended by the NHS.

5. Rest, Recover and Listen to Your Body

Allow your body time to rest and recover. Build in one or two lighter days each week. If an exercise causes discomfort, stop or try a gentler alternative. If unsure, always seek medical or professional advice.

How Home Care Supports Fitness and Independence

Caring Care’s home care team helps clients stay active safely by:

• Encouraging daily movement
• Assisting with mobility exercises
• Monitoring comfort and safety
• Helping clients build confidence in their abilities

Fitness routines do not need to be complex. With the right support at home, staying active can be both safe and enjoyable.

Learn More

If you or a loved one would benefit from help staying fit and well at home, our team is here to help.

📍 Visit www.caringcare.co.uk to explore our personalised home care services.