Retirement is no excuse for physical inactivity or isolation.
At all age levels and especially in the elderly population, a sedentary lifestyle and low fitness levels are independent risk factors for all causes of mortality, including cardiovascular mortality. Exercise improves cardiovascular outcomes by increasing vagal activity and attenuating sympathetic hyperactivity. The risk of diabetes mellitus type 2 developing is reduced by 40% in men of normal weight and 60% in overweight men when on a regular exercise program. Physical activity in the elderly sustains cerebral perfusion, maintaining cognitive function. Isolation, which is not uncommon among the elderly, fosters cognitive decline. Stimulating mental activity can protect against dementia.
Keller
Kathryn Buchanan
KB
Florida Atlantic University College of Nursing, Boca Raton, USA.
Lemberg
Louis
L
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001022:Aortic Valve Insufficiency / Q000209:etiology; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000209:etiology; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000502:physiology*; D012179:Retirement; D040242:Risk Reduction Behavior; D012934:Social Isolation