Exercise and Physical Activity for Older Adults

TLDR

This Position Stand reviews key issues highlighting the importance of exercise and physical activity for older adults. The review is organized into three parts: an overview of age‑related changes, an assessment of how exercise can modify aging, and a summary of the health and functional benefits of long‑term and short‑duration exercise programs. Regular exercise does not halt biological aging but reduces the physiological impact of inactivity, extends active life expectancy by preventing chronic disease and disability, offers psychological and cognitive benefits, and should comprise aerobic, strength, and flexibility training, aligning with ACSM and 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines, and all older adults should remain active.

Abstract

The purpose of this Position Stand is to provide an overview of issues critical to understanding the importance of exercise and physical activity in older adult populations. The Position Stand is divided into three sections: Section 1 briefly reviews the structural and functional changes that characterize normal human aging, Section 2 considers the extent to which exercise and physical activity can influence the aging process, and Section 3 summarizes the benefits of both long-term exercise and physical activity and shorter-duration exercise programs on health and functional capacity. Although no amount of physical activity can stop the biological aging process, there is evidence that regular exercise can minimize the physiological effects of an otherwise sedentary lifestyle and increase active life expectancy by limiting the development and progression of chronic disease and disabling conditions. There is also emerging evidence for significant psychological and cognitive benefits accruing from regular exercise participation by older adults. Ideally, exercise prescription for older adults should include aerobic exercise, muscle strengthening exercises, and flexibility exercises. The evidence reviewed in this Position Stand is generally consistent with prior American College of Sports Medicine statements on the types and amounts of physical activity recommended for older adults as well as the recently published 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. All older adults should engage in regular physical activity and avoid an inactive lifestyle.