For most, it has become increasingly common to hear a relative or friend mention they need to reach their daily step goal. Most of us may have heard that we need at least 10,000 steps per day to maintain good health and a long life.

According to Allison Aubrey, author of 10,000 Steps a Day? How Many You Really Need to Boost Longevity states,

“While walking can benefit one’s health, there really is nothing special when it comes to the number 10,000.”

While the number has no significant meaning, this does not mean we should not set a daily steps goal for ourselves. Setting a step goal for yourself would boost your overall morale. In a recent study, I-Min Lee of Brigham and Women’s Hospital discovered that the benefits of walking max out at 7,500 steps for those over the age of 72.

If 10,000 steps have been feeling out of reach for you, Aubrey says,

“It may be time to rethink your step goal. Instead, try to hit at least 4,400 a day, along with daily activities that you enjoy. And stick to it.”

Walking may be the best form of physical exercise for seniors. It can be performed at low or moderate intensity and it is easy on the joints.

Make walking part of your daily routine with these tips:

• Start with light walking for short distances
• Build walking into a different activity, like trips to a nearby park for fresh air
• Take walks indoor at the local mall when the weather is too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter

Contact a Sourcewise Community Resource Specialist for more information about self-care resources: (408) 350-3200, option 1.