OLDER people who are physically active are at lower risk of developing breast and prostate cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and depression.
The findings are contained in a review of all published reviews of studies that assessed the relationship between physical activity and health in adults aged 60 years or older.
The review was carried out by the Institute of Public Health in collaboration with Ulster University and the University of Southern Denmark.
The review, in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, also found that physically active older adults experience healthier ageing, better quality of life, and improved cognitive function.
While an ageing population represents one of the greatest public health successes, staying healthier for longer and delaying the onset of illness and disability is a major challenge for policymakers and older people.
Dr Conor Cunningham, from the Institute of Public Health, says the latest evidence provides an important basis to help inform public health policy.
He added: “For some time we have known of the benefits of physical activity for our physical health. However, this research highlights compelling new evidence of the benefits of being physically active on our mental health, depression and notably dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Now more than ever it is crucial that we support older people to stay healthier for longer. It is imperative that evidence from this review is used to inform policy which supports all of us to be more physically active as we age.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that people aged 65 and over should do at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity, such as a brisk walk, five times a week.
But research shows that 1 in 2 people aged 65 and over in Ireland and Northern Ireland do not get enough physical activity.
Prof Mark Tully, of Ulster University, says the review highlights that regular physical activity concurrently reduces the risk of developing multiple physical and mental health outcomes in older adults. “This stage of life represents an important period to promote physical activity to improve functions of daily living and slow progression of disease and disability,” he added.