Physical activity in older age: perspectives for healthy ageing and frailty

Physical activity in older age: perspectives for healthy ageing and frailty

2 March 2016 | Jamie S. McPhee · David P. French · Dean Jackson · James Nazroo · Neil Pendleton · Hans Degens
Physical activity is crucial for maintaining health and preventing frailty in older adults. Regular exercise improves physical and mental functions and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. However, most older people in the UK do not meet recommended activity levels. Sedentary lifestyles contribute to premature illness and frailty. Local authorities should promote physical activity, but challenges remain in encouraging regular participation. Physical activity is safe for both healthy and frail older adults, reducing risks of cardiovascular disease, obesity, falls, and cognitive impairments. Despite this, participation remains low, especially in less affluent areas. Clinicians, family, and friends can encourage older adults to increase activity, keeping costs low and enjoyment high. Group activities and self-efficacy for exercise are important. Physical activity is associated with better health, mobility, and longevity. Regular exercise also reduces the risk of falls and improves balance. For frail older adults, combined resistance and endurance training is more effective than individual exercises. Exercise is generally safe, but risks exist, particularly for those with pre-existing health issues. Resistance training can lead to minor musculoskeletal issues, but overall, it is beneficial. Low and moderate intensity aerobic exercise is low risk. Social, demographic, and psychological factors influence physical activity participation. Socioeconomic status, gender, age, and ethnicity affect activity levels. Older people in higher socioeconomic positions are more likely to remain active. Psychological factors, such as self-efficacy and expectations of positive outcomes, also influence participation. Group activities and social interactions are important for motivation. Physical activity programs should be tailored to individual needs and capabilities. Overall, regular physical activity is essential for healthy ageing and reducing the risk of frailty in older adults.Physical activity is crucial for maintaining health and preventing frailty in older adults. Regular exercise improves physical and mental functions and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. However, most older people in the UK do not meet recommended activity levels. Sedentary lifestyles contribute to premature illness and frailty. Local authorities should promote physical activity, but challenges remain in encouraging regular participation. Physical activity is safe for both healthy and frail older adults, reducing risks of cardiovascular disease, obesity, falls, and cognitive impairments. Despite this, participation remains low, especially in less affluent areas. Clinicians, family, and friends can encourage older adults to increase activity, keeping costs low and enjoyment high. Group activities and self-efficacy for exercise are important. Physical activity is associated with better health, mobility, and longevity. Regular exercise also reduces the risk of falls and improves balance. For frail older adults, combined resistance and endurance training is more effective than individual exercises. Exercise is generally safe, but risks exist, particularly for those with pre-existing health issues. Resistance training can lead to minor musculoskeletal issues, but overall, it is beneficial. Low and moderate intensity aerobic exercise is low risk. Social, demographic, and psychological factors influence physical activity participation. Socioeconomic status, gender, age, and ethnicity affect activity levels. Older people in higher socioeconomic positions are more likely to remain active. Psychological factors, such as self-efficacy and expectations of positive outcomes, also influence participation. Group activities and social interactions are important for motivation. Physical activity programs should be tailored to individual needs and capabilities. Overall, regular physical activity is essential for healthy ageing and reducing the risk of frailty in older adults.
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