Exercise in the healthy older adult.
Habitual exercise provides numerous health benefits to the older adult. While dynamic aerobic activities increase stamina and lung capacity, isometric or resistance training improves muscle strength and endurance. Long-term benefits of continued exercise include a decreased risk of death from heart disease, enhanced balance and mobility, a decreased risk of diabetes, and an improvement in depressive symptoms. While the hazards of exercise relate predominantly to extremes of intensity and duration, all older adults should consult with a physician before beginning a new activity program. A prescription for exercise should include both aerobic and resistance training components, and frequent follow-up to improve adherence is highly recommended.
Karani
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Department of Geriatrics and Adult Development, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, 1 Gustave Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA.
McLaughlin
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Cassel
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D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D000572:American Heart Association; D001634:Bibliographies as Topic; D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000502:physiology; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006339:Heart Rate / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D014481:United States