Exercise is key and having an aged parent who loves to exercise is a godsend. My mom was walking, very slowly around the block, no matter where the block might be, up till the fall that put her in rehab. I love the story about the upstairs TV keeping someone fit.
Fullmom, there are many positives about going into care. One, the day to day of care and home are off your plate, so you can concentrate on enjoying your relationship. The increased socialization with peers can be wonderful as can activities if your mom is so inclined. The staff and patients really do build loving relationships in many cases, and the teasing and intimacy that develop really is heart warming. Community is built in good facilities, and we all tend to do better with a strong community around us.