In addition to being national seniors’ month, June is also known as the Great Outdoors Month! This means June is an excellent time to get outside and explore! A national holiday isn’t the only reason to choose June as the perfect time to spend more time outside, though. There are many reasons why going outside for some exercise and fresh air is a great choice for anyone- even those with mobility issues!

With the wet weather that comes with winter and spring well behind us, June is more likely to bring with it clear walkways and healthy fields, making walking outdoors much easier for anyone to enjoy.   

Many health benefits to getting outdoors

Did you know? Rollator walkers by Volaris are not just for those that need help walking. They’re loved by those who are active yet have mobility issues to help them go everywhere they have always enjoyed!

Your sleep will improve

Getting fresh air and exposing yourself to natural light daily, especially in the mornings, can help your body’s natural sleep cycle to regulate, allowing you to sleep better at night. Regular exercise can also help your body to expend energy and be more ready to rest and relax each night.

It can help support your mental health

Getting outside for a walk or to enjoy the fresh air on a regular basis can help increase the release of endorphins like serotonin which can help reduce feelings of anxiety, stress and depression which can in turn improve your overall mood. Regular exercise can also help improve your brain function leading to better memory retention, attention span and possibly even reducing the onset of dementia and other brain diseases. 

Vitamin D has many health benefits

Vitamin D is something that most people are low in, so getting outdoors this June will no doubt help to increase your supply. This vitamin is essential in helping your body to maintain a healthy immune system leading to a better defense against things like cancer, osteoporosis and even Alzheimer’s disease.

How to enjoy the outdoors

Hit the trails

With hundreds of trails in the Toronto area including sections of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail and the Great Trail that stretches across Canada, there is no shortage of great, easy to walk pathways to get to know. Many of these trails are paved and very easy to walk so they’ll be a great way to enjoy the outdoors.

Take up a hobby

Hobbies like photography and bird watching are a great way to spend more time outdoors. Whether you go for a walk to find the perfect view or just head to your favourite park bench and enjoy the nature close to home, the time you spend outdoors taking photos or looking for new birds to identify will have many positive effects.

Walk a dog

Taking a dog for a walk is the perfect excuse to get outdoors this June. Dogs need to spend time outside to get their exercise and fresh air, so if you or a friend has a dog you can use this furry friend as an excuse to get some movement in your day. Visit with family and friends Getting together with family or friends to go for a walk and have a visit is the perfect motivator to get outside, especially during 2021 when getting together has been difficult.

Use a mobility aid to help support movement

Even if you struggle to stay on your feet or walk for longer periods there are tools that you can use to help you get around. Spending time moving around outside has many health benefits so it is worthwhile to use tools like a rollator walker or a cane to help support you.

Rollator walkers have built in features like a seat, handbrakes, adjustable height and large wheels designed to move easily over a wide variety of terrain. These features can make maintaining freedom and independence much easier than if you try to push through without taking advantage of the support they offer.

The Great Outdoors Month is the perfect reason to get outside

Spending time outdoors has many benefits for everyone. If you need a push to spend more time outside and take in all the positive effects that fresh air and regular movement can bring, this national month-long holiday might be just the ticket!

With temperatures warming up and snow finally gone for another year it’s high time to get outside for some fresh air and exercise. Walking is the perfect low impact exercise for anyone that’s been looking for a way to keep moving. 

As you’ll see, challenges with mobility CAN be overcome with the help of quality walking aids. 

Chief among the many reasons to take your regular walk outdoors now that weather allows for it include:

1. See the sights and sounds of spring
As the weather warms up you’ll get to enjoy more and more of what spring has to offer on your regular walks. Getting outside to experience the birds singing, flowers blooming and grass turning green will help motivate you to start or continue an outdoor walking routine.
2. Breath in the fresh air
The fresh air you’ll get from walking outside will leave you feeling refreshed and full of energy. Fresh air has significant benefits on a person’s mental health, especially after all the time they’ve likely spent indoors through the winter.
3. Enjoy in comfortable temperatures
It’s no surprise that it’s much easier to get outside for a walk when the temperatures are warmer. With no need to struggle with a coat or to search for a hat and mittens before going outside for a walk in the cold, you won’t have anything holding you back from going for a walk.
4. Get some sun
Vitamin D is a necessary piece of a healthy lifestyle and the sun is a significant natural source of it. Vitamin D can help boost your immune system, reduce depression and improve weight loss so after a winter of being indoors, spring is the perfect time to increase your exposure to this important vitamin.
5. The outdoors is great for your health
Spending time outside can help relive stress, relax tense muscles, lower blood pressure and help improve your immune system. Going for a walk outside can also help increase endorphins and the release of serotonin resulting in a better mood overall.
6. It’s easier to keep going
When people spend time exercising outside they are often more likely to spend more time doing it. When you exercise at home it is easy to stop as soon as you get tired or bored. But once you’ve set out for a walk you have no choice but to keep going until you get back home. If you are just starting a walking routine, it might be best to start out small so you don’t end up pushing yourself too far, too soon.
7. Nature is a free, stimulating setting
When looking for an easy way to incorporate physical exercise into one’s daily routine, there’s no easier and cheaper way than to head outdoors and go for a walk. Your community’s sidewalks and pathways are a great way to embrace the outdoors and take in all the many benefits it can provide. Also, every walk will be different – seeing different people and places will stimulate your senses and add variety to life!

Mobility aids can provide comfort

If you or your loved one is facing some struggles when it comes to getting mobile outdoors there are a few different mobility aids that can help them feel more comfortable and independent.

A cane – when they need just a bit of help with balance a cane can be just the trick. A cane will offer a third ‘leg’ to lean on, helping with balance and light movement.

A walker – for small movements a 4-legged walker can help offer balance and support when a user doesn’t need wheels to assist their mobility.  

A rollator walker – rollator walkers provide the most benefits for anyone struggling with getting around. The built-in seat, adjustable height, easy to use hand brakes and all terrain wheels make using a walker easy. 

Getting outdoors is great for your health

Whether you need some support or are able to move around without any, the outdoors is a great place to continue your regular walking routine. The numerous benefits will have you feeling great and appreciating the season for all it has to offer. If support is needed, a rollator walker is the perfect tool to help you maintain your independence and keep up with a good quality of life.

When you first make the transition to using a rollator walker it can seem like a simple switch. You just buy a new walker and off you go! But if you are an active person and find yourself still struggling to do some of the things you used to enjoy, you might need to take some time to consider whether you actually have the right rollator walker for your lifestyle. After all: not all rollator walkers are created equal! 

What is an all-terrain rollator?

An all-terrain rollator walker is much like an all-terrain vehicle. It has specific features that will allow you to travel on different kinds of ground.

A “regular” rollator has basic size and strength meant largely for indoor, smooth surfaces only. The wheels on standard rollators may struggle to go through dirt, grass, sand or hilly areas. An all-terrain rollator can help you navigate these terrains with ease.

Do you actually need an all-terrain rollator walker?

If you are only planning to use your walker to get around your home, visit the store or walk on a sidewalk you may not need an all-terrain rollator. However, if you’d like to take your grandkids to the park, walk across a grassy field or go on walks that may not have a flat sidewalk, an all-terrain rollator might be just the ticket. Maintaining your mobility is important for your health as a senior and having the right rollator can help make sure that happens. 

Top features of an all-terrain rollator walker

Since all terrain rollators are designed to travel over rough and uneven surfaces there are a few key features that set them apart from normal, daily use rollator walkers.1. Larger wheels

The smaller 5”-7” wheels that are on regular rollators just won’t do on more uneven surfaces. All terrain rollator walkers typically have wheels that are 8”-12” in diameter which can help make pushing it over rough ground much easier. These larger wheels will roll much smoother and easier on rough ground, helping your hands and back feel more at ease as well.

2. Adjustable height 

The ability to adjust the height of your all-terrain rollator walker will help ensure you put the least amount of stress on your back and shoulders. Since you’ll be navigating terrain that is uneven, you want to be sure that your body has the best support possible.

3. Flexible shock-absorbing frame

Look for a frame that has “give” or “flex”. Only premium rollator walkers will offer this advanced mechanism. It not only enhances the ease with which users, particularly seniors, can move across rugged terrain, but it provides energy absorption which reduces shock/vibration in the hands.

4. Ability to fold up

Since your all-terrain rollator may be bulkier than a regular rollator you’ll appreciate its ability to fold up into a manageable package to fit into your car’s backseat or trunk. This portability will allow you to bring your all-terrain walker anywhere you want to go. Make sure you can fold up your rollator on your own or with the support of someone who will be with you so that you can maintain maximum mobility as you age.

5. Great hand brakes

Because you’ll be using your all-terrain rollator on uneven, rough or hilly terrain effective handbrakes are a must. Ensure that you can easily squeeze and engage the handbrakes on your walker before you take it to use on rougher terrain. This feature will help ensure that you are fully able to control your rollator walker and your speed when going down hills or stopping for a break.

6. A built-in seat

When travelling over rough terrain it can be common for your body to require a rest sooner than if you were on flat ground. The built-in seat on a rollator walker will help you take a break any time you decide you need one, without needing to search around for a suitable place to stop. 

Pictured above is the Volaris Patrol All-Terrain Rollator. It features best-in-class features to allow freedom of movement outside over varied, rough terrain. It is impeccably designed strong and light – with all of the above attributes.

An all-terrain rollator helps users to go further and live healthier

Whether you want to maintain an active lifestyle or just want to ensure you keep moving as much as you can, an all-terrain rollator walker is the perfect tool to help you do that. With several features designed to make mobility comfortable and easy, a rollator walker is the best way to keep your health and mobility on track as you age.

The MedUp V2 is the newest intelligent, motorized therapy ergometer, targeting both upper and lower extremities.

The MedUp V2 is targeted to people with mobility issues resulting from accidents or chronic diseases or conditions, including strokes, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries,  diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or simply aging. 

Advanced cycle therapy features

The motor-assisted bike’s most advanced features are its ability to automatically detect and release muscle spasms, and reduce spasticity. Additional features set the MedUp V2 apart from other cycle therapy bikes. It has  both arm and leg pedals built into the unit while typical bikes have only a single set of pedals that must be picked up and moved to be used with either set of limbs.

The MedUp V2 offers immediate feedback on speed, resistance, muscle tension, symmetry training of the limbs and other training data on a large, colour, easy-to-use, intuitive screen display.

The device is highly adaptable. It can be used in different modes, depending on if or how well users can move their arms and legs on their own.

Replaces the MOTOmed and THERA Vital trainers in Canada

Due to changes in Health Canada medical device-licencing requirements, the RECK MOTOmed and THERA Vital active-passive exercisers are no longer available in Canada.. Rehabilitation centres, healthcare institutions and home users in search of such advanced, specialized cycle therapy bike have been out of luck.

 But now, health-care professionals in physical therapy and rehabilitation have a premium, commercial-grade therapy system to deliver superior patient care.The MedUp V2 is designed for optimal performance to meet the needs of the Canadian market. 

MedUp V2 exclusively sold in Ontario by Xlent Care Products

View MedUp V2 product specifications, and purchase now.

The MedUp V2 active-passive cycle trainer is sold exclusively in Ontario by Xlent Care Products Inc.

“As previous supplier of the MOTOmed movement therapy system in Ontario, we’re thrilled to bring this new, advanced equipment to market,” says Alan Fine, president of Xlent Care Products  and previous president of Rehatek Inc..

MedUp V2 purchase inquiries are welcome to discuss specifications, advanced therapy/rehabilitation features and more. The equipment ships fast throughout Ontario, and is backed by knowledgeable sales experts.

When looking to help maintain a good quality of life for seniors, there are many things to consider  -but they may not be what you think!

According to a recent study, most seniors feel that connection with family and friends helps them to maintain a high quality of life more than financial security.

Building and maintaining relationships with loved ones helps seniors to hold onto their quality of life, even when finances and health might be causing stress. Helping the seniors in your life to remain connected to the people they know and to meet new friends can ensure that stay happy as they age.

Social connections are vitally important for seniors

Maintaining strong social connections as they age can help seniors hold onto their health, both mental and physical. As humans age it becomes more difficult to get out and interact with friends and family. However, it is an essential thing to stay on top of because many seniors who are isolated from social connections have been shown to be at a greater risk of developing dementia and may even live shorter lives.

How to help seniors stay connected

There are many ways that you can help seniors stay connected. Whether you are able to be there to help facilitate or are guiding from a distance, there are several things that you can do to offer your support and assistance.

1. Go for regular walks
Whether they are able to walk on their own- with or without mobility aids- or have friends or family that are willing to walk with them, getting out for regular walks is a great way to maintain connectivity. Walking with a friend is the perfect way to engage in conversation, maintain mental health and improve physical health.
2. Make use of technology and the internet
If the distance is a barrier, seniors can make use of the internet to help reduce that distance. Chatting through text or video calls can facilitate a connection with far away friends and family. Often seniors can struggle with learning how to use technology so spending some time teaching them the basics will be essential to their success.
3. Choose a socially thriving home
When the time comes to move into an assisted living facility, choosing the right one is the best way to help seniors maintain relationships and connections. Homes that host regular social events like game nights, coffee clubs and local field trips are a great choice for seniors that thrive on connections with others.
4. Plan family visits
One of the most important connections in a senior’s life is the ones they have with their family. In order to maintain those connections as they age, families should make time to join their loved ones for meals, outings, and other gatherings.
5. Take up a hobby
Another great way to foster relationships and stay connected with their community is to take up a hobby. Joining a sewing club, bowling league, dart team or choir is the perfect way for seniors to make friends with similar interests. Bird watching and photography are amazing ways to get out while doing something fun!
6. Try out volunteering
Spending time volunteering with their church, community organizations or charities is one way that seniors are able to still feel connected with their community. If volunteering is a new idea for your loved one, you may consider joining them at the beginning to help increase their comfort level.
7. Encourage them to attend parties
Whether it’s a birthday party for their grandkids, an anniversary party for a friend or a graduation party for a child, encouraging seniors to attend parties is an excellent way for them to have fun, break up their routine and maintain a connection with their family and friends. 

Mobility helps seniors maintain quality of life

Since quality of life is directly related to the connection that seniors have with their family, friends and community, the ability to move around is an essential aspect. Mobility, both assisted and unassisted, is a strong factor in a senior’s quality of life.

Physical movement helps seniors to ward off many physical ailments as well as mental ones. Whether they use a cane, a rollator walker or a wheelchair to help them get around, regular movement can help boost their immune system, ward of many age- and health-related ailments, maintain a positive outlook and continue to foster relationships with friends and family.