Author:

DUKE Tony

Journal article citation:

Nursing and Residential Care, 14(5), May 2012, pp.246-249.

Publisher:

MA Healthcare Ltd.

Place of publication:

London

For the first time, physical activity guidelines specifically for adults aged 65 years and over have been published. The suggested amount of exercise should add up to at least 150 minutes a week and be of moderate intensity. People working in nursing and residential care are required to provide appropriate physical and mental stimulation for their residents. This article aims to advice service providers on promoting healthy living in line with these guidelines. Specifically, it describes 2 types of activities. Sensory activities involve the stimulation of the senses, and include various activities from opening a window and smelling fresh cut grass to spending time in a sensory room. Seated physical activities involve regular, therapeutic movement and often entail touching equipment or hearing instructions or music. Sensory stimulation and seated physical activity can be provided together to give mental and physical benefits to patients. The article describes simple and cost-effective ways of providing this service in homes.

Subject terms:

leisure activities, older people, physical exercise, residents, care homes;

Content type:

practice guidance

Location(s):

United Kingdom

Link:

Journal home page

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