For people of all ages, physical activity
improves the quality of life in many ways
For people of all ages, physical activity
improves the quality of life in many ways. Physical
benefits include improved and increased balance,
strength, coordination, flexibility and
endurance. Physical activity has also shown to
improve mental health, motor control and cognitive
function.
Active lifestyles provide older persons with
regular occasions to make new friendships,
maintain social networks, and interact with
other people of all ages. Improved flexibility,
balance, and muscle tone can help prevent
falls—a major cause of disability among older
people. It has been found that the prevalence of
mental illness is lower among people who are
physically active.
The benefits of physical activity can be
enjoyed even if regular practice starts late in
life. Common diseases among older people are
cardiovascular disease, arthritis, osteoporosis,
and hypertension. While being active from an
early age can help prevent many diseases, regular
movement and activity can also help relieve
the disability and pain associated with these
conditions.
Physical activity can also contribute greatly to
the management of some mental disorders such
as depression and Alzheimer’s disease. Organized
exercise sessions, appropriately suited to
an individual’s fitness level, or simply casual
walks can provide the opportunity for making
new friends and maintaining ties with the community,
reducing feelings of loneliness and
social exclusion. Physical activity improves selfconfidence
and self-sufficiency—qualities that
are the foundation of psychological well-being.
As for people of all ages, older persons should
take part in physical activities they enjoy the most.
Anyone with a specific condition or disability that
could affect their ability to be physically active
should seek the advice of a doctor before participating
in physical activity. Walking, swimming,
stretching, dance, gardening, hiking and cycling
are all excellent activities for older persons.
The number of people over 60 years old is
projected to double in the next 20 years. Most of
these older persons will be living in developing
countries. Reducing and postponing age-related
disability is an essential public health measure
and physical activity can play an important role
in creating and sustaining well-being at all ages.
N° 641 June 2005