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At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- National Institute on Aging; Exercise & Physical Activity: Your Everyday Guide from the National Institute on Aging; 2010
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Promoting Active Lifestyles Among Older Adults
- "Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise;" Exercise Training Guidelines for the Elderly; WJ. Evans; 1999
- "Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise;" Exercise Training Guidelines for the Elderly; WJ. Evans; 1999
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Why Is Physical Exercise Important for the Elderly?
Physical activity is vital at any age, but as you grow older, changes set in that make exercise even more crucial. Conditions that typically develop with aging can be delayed when you stay active. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that physical activity can even extend life expectancy 2. Always consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program.
Mobility
When you grow older, bones can become brittle and the muscles shorten. An elderly person can lose the balance and coordination that they have had their entire lives. Staying active helps keep the body flexible. Stretching routines will lengthen muscle tissue and help prevent wasting and shortening. Exercise can reduce incidents of arthritis and osteoporosis by increasing bone density and joint range of motion. If you are currently being treated for any chronic illness, your doctor can advise you of safe exercises that will improve your health.
- When you grow older, bones can become brittle and the muscles shorten.
- Stretching routines will lengthen muscle tissue and help prevent wasting and shortening.
Strong Heart
The Importance of Elderly Exercise & Socialization Programs
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One critical component of aging is heart health. Regular exercise helps to keep the heart muscle in shape and can ward off common cardiac problems. Exercising at even a light intensity will raise the heart rate and improve overall fitness. Cardiovascular training for the elderly increases respiratory intake and helps fight common illnesses, such as a cold or the flu. Vascular occlusion, or the blocking of arteries, can occur when you grow older. Exercise can help reduce the risk by lowering blood cholesterol.
- One critical component of aging is heart health.
- Exercising at even a light intensity will raise the heart rate and improve overall fitness.
Mental Health
Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When you work out, the body releases endorphins that make you feel capable. If you are elderly and fighting the psychological effects of aging, exercise may be the key to giving you drive and energy. A sedentary lifestyle can affect you at any age, but after retirement, the days may seem longer. Take part in an exercise program to help fill some of the hours. An ordinary walk when you feel blue will enhance your spirits. Exercise will also improve cognitive functions. As you age, your memory may not be as clear as it once was. Exercise can help improve mental focus.
- Exercise is a natural mood enhancer.
- If you are elderly and fighting the psychological effects of aging, exercise may be the key to giving you drive and energy.
Considerations
Body Aches From Not Exercising
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There is no down side to regular exercise as you grow older. Even if traditional programs will not work because of physical constraints, you can still be active. Wheelchair fitness DVDs and stretching can improve your health and help fight off illness. Many problems associated with growing older will improve if you stay active, as long as your doctor gives you the OK.
- There is no down side to regular exercise as you grow older.
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References
- National Institute on Aging; Exercise & Physical Activity: Your Everyday Guide from the National Institute on Aging; 2010
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Promoting Active Lifestyles Among Older Adults
- "Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise;" Exercise Training Guidelines for the Elderly; WJ. Evans; 1999
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- Abdelaal M, le Roux CW, Docherty NG. Morbidity and mortality associated with obesity. Ann Transl Med. 2017;5(7):161. doi:10.21037/atm.2017.03.107
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Heart Disease Facts. Updated September 8, 2020.
- American Heart Association. Warm Weather Fitness Guide: Your Path to Heart Health. 2012.
- American Heart Association. Lifestyle Changes for Heart Attack Prevention. Updated July 31, 2015.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Type 2 Diabetes. Updated May 2017.
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- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Heart Disease and Stroke. Updated October 7, 2020.
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- American Heart Association. American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and Kids. Updated April 18, 2018.
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Writer Bio
Writing since 1999, Darla Ferrara is an award-winning author who specializes in health, diet, fitness and computer technology. She has been published in "Mezzo Magazine" and Diet Spotlight, as well as various online magazines. Ferrara studied biology and emergency medical technology at the University of Nebraska and Southeast Community College.