[For Seniors] Stay Healthy Through Your Mouth with the A-I-U-BE Exercises!
I think exercise activities are common in senior care facilities and day services, but you may not have heard much about the “A-I-U-Be” exercises.
The A-I-U-Be exercises are designed to move the muscles around the mouth.
They strengthen the tongue muscles and naturally encourage nasal breathing.
Nasal breathing is great for relaxing both the mind and body.
It’s also said to help improve age-related sagging, so it’s full of benefits.
On top of that, it can improve oral health, making mealtimes more enjoyable.
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[For Seniors] Get Healthy Through the Mouth with the A-I-U-Be Exercises! (11–20)
A-I-U-Be exercises to balance the autonomic nervous system

Let’s regulate the autonomic nervous system through nasal breathing.
It will also help you wake up feeling refreshed in the morning.
While saying “a-i-u-be,” move your mouth and stick out your tongue.
This strengthens the muscles that close the mouth and changes the tongue’s position, helping you shift from mouth breathing to nasal breathing.
Aim for 10 sets after meals, for example.
Of course, it’s fine for older adults to do only what they comfortably can.
Switching to nasal breathing can aid recovery from fatigue and may help prevent illness by stopping germs like cold viruses in the nose.
Give it a try!
Exercise with Sazae-san

When you think of Sunday evening TV shows, many people probably think of Sazae-san.
Let’s try moving our bodies to the Sazae-san song.
It’s a long-running program, so many older adults are likely familiar with the song and the content of the anime.
When it’s a song you know, it’s easier to get your body moving.
The Sazae-san song also has a bright, cheerful feel, which can help calm and uplift older adults while they exercise.
Both the opening and ending themes work well for fun exercises, so I recommend either one.
Please give it a try!
Rhythmic gymnastics at Blue Light Yokohama

Released in 1968, “Blue Light Yokohama” is one of the signature songs of the Showa era.
Many older adults have likely sung it at karaoke or heard it on TV or the radio.
Let’s try some rhythmic exercises with this familiar tune.
Since the song portrays a couple in love, it could be fun to incorporate movements that match the lyrics.
Older adults might feel nostalgic, recalling the time when this song was popular as they exercise.
You could even sing along while doing the exercises.
Slow aerobics with Momotaro

Many older adults are likely familiar with the folktale Momotaro.
There’s also a children’s song that tells the story of Momotaro, isn’t there? Let’s try moving our bodies to that song.
This is called slow aerobics, where you move gently in time with the music.
You can do the exercises standing, but they can also be done while seated.
It’s an easy routine for older adults who find standing difficult.
Through gentle, low-strain movements, it may also help you lead a more vibrant, fulfilling daily life.
In conclusion
How did you like the A-I-U-Ve exercises, which have various positive effects on the mouth? In everyday life, we don’t usually pay much attention to exercising our mouths.
In addition to helping maintain good oral hygiene, they are said to have significant beauty benefits and contribute to healthy longevity.
Let’s all enjoy doing the A-I-U-Ve exercises together.


