Staying fit keeps you healthy; both physically, emotionally and socially.
Pain and weakness stops people from doing the activities that keep them healthy
People often do not address these issues for a number of reasons:
they don’t know there is something to be done
They are fearful of going to the doctor or of the treatment suggested
Mild depression is common amongst the elderly and they often just need a bit of encouragement to go and get help
The best way to stay fit as an old person is to be clever and work around your disabilities. This is called activity modification for example
While gardening, If you can’t sit on your haunches anymore because your knees are stiff and painful; there are many options to consider: Sit on a low bench while gardening.Get a longer fork or spade so you can reach down more easily. Change your activity to walking or bowels.
If this activity modification fails to work then consider consultation with a doctor to help with pain management. Treatment could take on the form of a simple pain tablet, physio therapy or, as a last resort, surgery.