Put a little spring in your step

When birds chirp, tulips bloom and trees leaf out, it's time to head outdoors and take in the magic of spring.

After being cooped up during the colder months, now is a good time to start getting some exercise on a regular basis. Research confirms that physical activity is a must for healthy aging.

Older adults who get out and walk to enjoy the spring will feel better physically and emotionally, and they can even get a dose of vitamin D from the sun. Those who engage in regular exercise can improve their overall fitness, decrease the risk of falls, and improve flexibility, strength, balance and agility — all areas of health that diminish with aging.

Moderate exercise such as walking five or more days a week can lead to many health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of moderate physical activity:

• Increased mental capacity

• Disease prevention

• Improved quality of life

• Increased balance

• Increased life expectancy

The right equipment for mobility

Individuals with mobility issues may benefit from the use of a walker, cane or other assistive device to enjoy the outdoors this season.

“Call us or visit our retail store in Schaumburg to see the many styles and colors of walking aids offered for every age group. As spring approaches, we even offer rental options on scooters to help our customers enjoy the outdoors with family and friends,” said Neidi Mack, vice president of Ancillary Services for Prism Health Care Services, a medical equipment company based in the northwest suburb.

The retail store provides an opportunity to touch, feel and take items for a ‘test drive.' Prism offers a wide variety of medical supplies, mobility aids and respiratory equipment to help individuals live as independently as possible. Trained staff can help you choose the right products for your specific needs, answer your questions and educate and train you on how to use your selection safely in your home.

“We have walkers, scooters, wheelchairs and canes in all designs and styles — purple, blue, breast cancer pink—fashionable colors to complement the beauty of spring,” Mack said.

Available products

• Aids for daily living

• Bathroom safety items

• Ambulatory aids

• Compression hosiery

• Oxygen

• Seat lifts

• Support surfaces

• Wheelchairs

Benefits and types of exercise

It's not necessary to engage in strenuous exercises to gain health benefits. Even 10 minutes at a time of a physical activity can be beneficial.

Types of exercise that are important to overall health and well-being include:

• Aerobic exercise

• Resistance training

• Stretching and flexibility exercises

• Balance exercise

Each of these exercises serves a different purpose. Low impact exercises such as Tai Chi and yoga help with balance, flexibility, breathing, relaxation and stress. All exercises can have health as well as social benefits by helping to maintain friendships and meeting new people.

If you would like to learn more about how mobility equipment and assistive devices may improve your functioning, independence and health, call 800-493-7200 or visit https://www.prismhc.com.

Prism Health Care Services is a durable medical equipment company that provides home medical and respiratory equipment, aids and devices throughout Chicagoland.

This story is sponsored by Prism Health Care.

Call Prism Health Care at (800) 493-7200 or visit www.PrismHC.com.