Exercise is vital for seniors with breast cancer in Fort Myers. It can improve treatment outcomes, reduce side effects, and enhance quality of life. The benefits are evident before, during, and after treatment. However, it is important to consult a doctor before beginning any new fitness routine.
Women who exercise regularly can lower their risk of breast cancer by 10% to 20% compared to women who are not physically active, according to Susan G.
Komen®. Beyond cancer prevention, there are links between exercise and breast cancer treatment outcomes and reduced risk of recurrence in remission.
Regular exercise lowers estrogen and insulin levels, reduces inflammation, and helps manage weight, all factors that contribute to cancer cell growth. During treatment, it lessens side effects while improving mental health. Cancer survivors can also enjoy a better quality of life by staying active.
Fort Myers seniors should pay attention to these links, as aging is a significant risk factor for breast cancer. Thankfully, they can get the required exercise needed by walking through the gardens of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates or swimming at Fort Myers Beach.
This article offers insight into why exercise is an effective strategy for managing breast cancer risk and improving survival.
Studies by the World Cancer Research Fund show that sex hormones, such as estrogens and androgens, can increase the risk of breast cancer, and regular exercise reduces their circulating levels. Other links between exercise and breast cancer prevention include:
Regular exercise is crucial to women's health and aging. Additional cancer prevention tips include consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, avoiding processed foods and smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption.
Regular activity is not only good for the elderly, but it's highly recommended for all ages to maintain overall well-being. Cancer survivors also benefit when they exercise regularly, as they have a lower risk of recurrence and improved survival rates. Exercise also alleviates common treatment side effects such as fatigue, pain, depression, and lymphedema.
Using exercise as a therapeutic intervention is central to the concept of 'exercise as medicine' in breast cancer recovery. This approach recognizes that structured exercise is not just a supplementary activity, but a vital component of care.
There are various options for senior fitness in Fort Myers, FL, including classes at the YMCA and Senior Friendship Centers. You can have access to other health and wellness options in your own backyard as a resident of Discovery Village The Forum. Our exclusive programs offer a holistic approach to well-being,including physical activities such as chair exercise, yoga, and water aerobics.
Regular exercise is one of several key active aging strategies that help promote well-being, longevity, and social participation in older adults. However, before starting any exercise routine, consult a doctor to identify health risks, tailor activities to your physical condition, and prevent injuries or serious complications.
You can discuss the following recommended exercise types for seniors: moderate aerobic exercise and strength training for 150 minutes every week, plus high-intensity interval and resistance training.
Ideally, the intensity of these should be adjusted to suit your physical condition and treatment status.
In addition to consulting your physician, you can access local support resources. Lee Health offers a Cancer Rehabilitation Program that can help seniors safely integrate exercise into their recovery and ongoing health maintenance. Their Cancer Support Community also provides:
Other local community support groups also offer exercise programs tailored for seniors with breast cancer. Getting professional guidance and personalized exercise plans helps ensure programs are safe, effective, and sustainable.
Begin with simple exercises that focus on stretching, flexibility, and light resistance to improve motion and rebuild strength safely. Use gentle, consistent movements tailored to your energy level to avoid overexertion. Most importantly, monitor your progress and learn to recognize signs that indicate you need to modify your exercise plans.
Breast cancer patients should aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise every week, along with two to three strength training sessions for all major muscle groups. Patients should start their exercise routine slowly and gradually build up intensity and duration, incorporating enjoyable exercises such as walking, swimming, yoga, or dancing. Consulting with their doctor or care team before starting, especially after surgery, can help prevent injuries and manage conditions like lymphedema.
Specific exercise precautions for breast cancer survivors include gradually increasing activity levels, avoiding overexertion, and being mindful of limits in the surgical arm to prevent injury and potential lymphedema.
The best type of exercise for breast cancer patients is a combination of aerobic and resistance training. Walking is a highly accessible, low-impact option, while swimming and yoga are good for beginners and those with certain precautions. Resistance exercises, using bands or light weights, can help build strength and potentially reduce the risk of lymphedema.
There is a strong relationship between exercise and breast cancer prevention. Regular exercise is also beneficial during cancer treatment and lowers the risk of recurrence.
As a Fort Myers senior, there are many opportunities to participate in fitness programs or activities. However, consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise routine.
Discovery Village The Forum helps residents prioritize physical activity for healthier aging and cancer outcomes. Our Dimensions Health and Wellness program focuses on residents' physical, mental, and spiritual needs. We also offer memory care wellness support with a person-centered approach to improve engagement, comprehension, and quality of life.
Contact us to experience this exceptional senior living community for two days with our Be Our Guest program, before deciding that our fun, active lifestyle is also for you.