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Exercise is has numerous health benefits for older people
ONLY around one in 10 Australians over the age of 50 exercises enough to gain any cardiovascular benefit. Some estimates suggest that about half of the physical decline associated with old age may be due to a lack of physical activity. It has been suggested that people over the age of 65 — more than any other age group — require adequate fitness levels to help them maintain independence, recover from illness and reduce their high risk of disease. Various studies show that it is never too late to get fit. The human body responds to exercise, no matter what its age, and there are many health benefits. For those aged over 40 who are obese, suffer from a chronic illness or have been sedentary for some time, it is a good idea to check with their doctor before embarking on any new exercise routine. Without regular exercise, people over the age of 50 can experience a range of health problems including: • Reduced muscle mass, strength and physical endurance; • Reduced coordination and balance; • Reduced joint flexibility and mobility; • Reduced cardiovascular and respiratory function; • Reduced bone strength; • Increased body fat levels; • Increased blood pressure; • Increased susceptibility to mood disorders,
such as anxiety and depression; and •Increased risk of various diseases including cardiovascular disease and stroke. Many older people believe exercise is no longer appropriate. Some of the common misconceptions that prompt older people to abandon physical activity include that older people are frail and physically weak, that the human body doesn’t need as much physical activity as it ages, that exercising is hazardous for older people because they may injure themselves, and only vigorous and sustained exercise is of any use. But there can be many benefits of regular exercise for older people, including maintaining or even building muscle mass, helping keep bones healthy and strong, improving cardio-respiratory fitness, keeping joints supple and helping keep body fat levels under control. The key is to choose activities you find interesting, as people are more likely to keep up with an exercise routine if it’s fun rather than a chore. Exercise with friends, and make physical activity an enjoyable social occasion. Safe, easy and comfortable forms of exercise include walking, swimming and cycling. Weight training can increase muscle mass, and programs as short as six to eight weeks can be beneficial. Begin slowly and aim for small improvements. Keep track of progress in a training diary for added motivation.
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Bairnsdale: Alison Tanner 119 Main Street Phone (03) 5152 2661
Lakes Entrance: Bevan Clarke 383 Esplanade Phone (03) 5155 1286
Orbost: Bevan Clarke 14 Ruskin Street Phone (03) 5154 2010
Mallacoota: Bevan Clarke 62 Maurice Avenue Phone (03) 5158 0077
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Sale: Jess Saunders Erin Thorsen 99 Raymond Street Phone (03) 5144 1777
Check your pulse frequently to make sure you aren’t overdoing it. Choose appropriate clothing and safety gear. And don’t let yourself dehydrate – drink plenty of water. Some chronic illnesses such as severe arthritis,
osteoporosis or advanced cardiovascular disease can limit the choice of physical activities. In these situations, it is best to consult closely with your doctor, physiotherapist or health care professional to devise an exercise program that is healthy and safe.
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Our friendly team can help Seniors with:
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We are proud to have worked for successive generations of families in Gippsland, providing our older clients (and their families) with clear, personalised and professional advice.
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275 Raymond St, Sale. Phone 5144 2005
