Stay Strong: Four Ways to Beat the Frailty Risk. The spring in your step, the healthy foods on your plate and the optimistic feeling in your heart all help you feel great today. But did you know that nurturing these factors could also help you sidestep or even reverse frailty—the loss of strength, speed and energy that can whittle away at independence as a person ages? An estimated 7 to 12 percent of Americans age 65 and older are considered frail. Risk rises with age—from one in 25 people between ages 65 and 74 to one in four of those older than age 84. That’s a concern, because frailty increases the risk of infections, illnesses that have to be treated in the hospital, falls and even disabilities.
In a study of 594 older adults, Johns Hopkins researchers have found that frailty doubles the risk of surgical complications, lengthens hospital stays, and increases the odds of leaving independence behind (and moving to a nursing home or assisted-living facility) after a surgical procedure by as much as twentyfold. Identify frailty early. Water Exercises for Seniors & Aging Adults | HydroWorx Pools. NIHSeniorHealth: Exercise: Benefits of Exercise - Health Benefits. One of the Healthiest Things You Can Do Like most people, you've probably heard that physical activity and exercise are good for you. In fact, being physically active on a regular basis is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself.
Studies have shown that exercise provides many health benefits and that older adults can gain a lot by staying physically active. Even moderate exercise and physical activity can improve the health of people who are frail or who have diseases that accompany aging. Being physically active can also help you stay strong and fit enough to keep doing the things you like to do as you get older. (Watch the videos on this page to learn more about the health benefits of exercise. Be as Active as Possible Regular physical activity and exercise are important to the physical and mental health of almost everyone, including older adults. Being Inactive Can Be Risky Prevent or Delay Disease Manage Stress, Improve Mood Exercise or Physical Activity? Exercise and Seniors. Is it safe for me to exercise? It is safe for most adults older than 65 years of age to exercise. Even patients who have chronic illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis can exercise safely.
Many of these conditions are improved with exercise. If you are not sure if exercise is safe for you or if you are currently inactive, ask your doctor. How do I get started? It is important to wear loose, comfortable clothing and well-fitting, sturdy shoes. Your shoes should have a good arch support, and an elevated and cushioned heel to absorb shock. If you are not already active, begin slowly. For example, walking is an excellent activity to start with. What type of exercise should I do? There are several types of exercise that you should do. Warm up for 5 minutes before each exercise session. Exercise is only good for you if you are feeling well. When should I call my doctor? If your muscles or joints are sore the day after exercising, you may have done too much. Exercise for the Elderly. The benefits of exercise throughout life are often touted. But is it safe for seniors older than 65 years to exercise? Absolutely.
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, almost all older people can benefit from additional physical activity. Regular exercise prevents chronic disease, improves mood and lowers chances of injury. With age, the body does take a little longer to repair itself, but moderate physical activity is good for people of all ages and ability levels. In fact, the benefits of your elderly parents exercising regularly far outweigh the risks. Even elderly people with chronic illnesses can exercise safely. Regular exercise provides a myriad of health benefits, including improvements in blood pressure, diabetes, lipid profile, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and neuro-cognitive function.
Regular exercise improves the following: Immune Function. A consistent exercise schedule is also associated with decreased mortality and age-related morbidity in older adults. The Surprising Extra Benefits of Exercise for Seniors.