Physical exercise later in life: What can it do for you or someone you love?
The American National Institute on Aging has released a number of reports emphasising the myriad of good reasons why elderly people should maintain physical activity. It is especially important to ensure that physical activity remains consistent as fitness levels in the elderly can decline very quickly and most will have a very hard time bringing it back up. The beneficial effects of exercise most relevant to older people include:
- Reduction of the risk of falls by keeping muscles strong
- Allowing for better and deeper sleep
- Decrease in the pain of arthritis
- Avoiding the weakening of bones and muscles
- Helping the heart and lungs to work at a better capacity
- Prevention of blood clots through improving blood flow
- Improvement of mental state and well-being
- Promotion and maintenance of the independence and ability to do things on their own.