During this age group, many health status, health functions and wellbeing are dramatically affected through age.
Older people should do some form of physical activity no matter how old they are or weight as it beneficial and it is necessary for healthy bodily functions. Many improved health results have been shown to occur with regular physical activity. Some of these outcomes include; improvement of physical function and independent living, a decrease in depression, improved communication, healthy bones, healthy muscles, healthy joints, reduce risk of heart disease, stroke, blood pressure and diabetes. Some of the many forms of physical activity that an late adult could perform could be: incidental activity, which are everyday life routines such as housework, walking to shops, gardening, etc. Leisure activities such as golf, lawn bowling, dancing, etc. can also be done. Structured activities are types of classes that one can undertake such as tai chi, yoga, walking groups, water yoga, however this can be done alone. This age group is when health problems naturally peak, when the body is aging and gradually getting weak. Late adulthood people tend to not participate in physical activities due to their health problems. One of the main influences of not participating is muscle and joint soreness, which however can be improved with light and gradual build up of stretching activities (balancing, yoga, walking) and strength training activities (such as light weights, stair climbing, resistance exercises). Another influence is poor heart and lung function, like heart disease, high blood pressure and constant shortness of breath, however can be improved with endurance activities which train the heart and lungs. These activities include walking, cycling, swimming, jogging. |
Physical Activity Across A Lifespan. | Late ADULTHOOD. 65 AND UP. |