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TexasCaregiver Asked January 2014

How can I get my mother to exercise more?

My mother is 73 and has 70% hearing loss, but is physically able to walk. She lives with me and my husband. The only things she wants to do is watch television, work a puzzle, and create oil paintings. She basically sits all day. When I ask her to go for a walk with me, most of the time she says no. My sister tells me to let her do whatever she wants to do. I am concerned about my mother's health. Any suggestions or should I do what my sister says and allow my mother to not get any exercises?

Jinx4740 Jan 2014
The comment about time in the stores is right on, Jeanne. I gained weight when I cut out my weekly afternoon three-hour hunt through 3 thrift shops. When I dieted, I discovered that even an hour standing and walking burns calories. Just don't call it exercise.

jeannegibbs Jan 2014
Do you "allow" her to get up and get her own coffee refill, to get a snack, to find a box of tissues? It may not be much but it is more exercise than just sitting, so I hope you are not waiting on her when she could be helping herself.

If she says "no" to walks most of the time, then I guess she says "yes" at least once in a while. Keep inviting her to walk with you.

Take her to the pet store or a plant nursery or a dollar store -- whatever kind she might enjoy. Walking around the store counts!

Like Eyerishlass, I can't think of how you can force an exercise program on your mom, even if it would be good for her. But you might find ways to get a smidgen or two of activity into her day without making a big deal of it.

Good luck!

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Eyerishlass Jan 2014
Hi Texas,

While in the hospital the PT taught my dad some exercises he should be doing at home. When he was released he did them about 3 times and never did them again. I encouraged him, I did them with him, I explained to him that he will grow weak if he didn't do them, I got frustrated with him and then I got angry. Finally I just let it go for my own peace of mind. We can't make someone do something they don't want to do. It sounds like you've been supportive and encouraging with your mom but if she doesn't want to do them don't make yourself crazy trying to make her.

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