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The Surprising Extra Benefits of
Exercise for Seniors
We’ve all heard about the many benefits of
exercise — a healthier heart, stronger bones, improved appearance
and flexibility — but exercise has many additional benefits,
especially for seniors.
“Many characteristics we associate with older
age — like the inability to walk long distances, climb stairs, or
carry groceries, are largely due to a lack of physical activity,”
explains Dr. John Montgomery, a family physician, medical
epidemiologist and vice-president of Senior Care Solutions with Blue
Cross and Blue Shield of Florida.
However, according to AARP, 40 percent of people
between 45 and 64 are considered sedentary. For people over 64, that
number jumps to 60 percent.
“Some are worried that exercise will cause
illness or injury,” said Montgomery. “Others think exercise means
they have to do something strenuous, which they may not be capable
of. What they may not realize is that it could be more of a risk not
to exercise,” explains Montgomery.
Seniors can benefit tremendously from regular
exercise. The Centers for Disease Control reports that seniors have
even more to gain than younger people by becoming more active
because they are at higher risk for the health problems that
physical activity can prevent.
Even moderate physical activity can help seniors
Increase mental capacity
Research links physical activity with slower
mental decline. Exercise increases blood flow to all parts of your
body, including your brain, and might promote cell growth there.
Exercise — particularly if it starts early and is maintained over
time — is beneficial in preventing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
(Source: Senior Journal.com)
Exercise may delay or prevent many diseases
associated with aging, such as diabetes, colon cancer, heart
disease, stroke, and others, and may reduce overall death and
hospitalization rates, according to the National Institute of Aging.
Injuries and wounds take longer to heal as
people age. Regular exercise by older adults may speed up the
wound-healing process by as much as 25 percent. (Source: Senior