The Importance of Physical Activity as We Age

The Importance of Physical Activity as We Age

Physical activity is essential for maintaining health and independence as we age. Whether it’s a daily

walk, a yoga session, or strength training, finding activities that are enjoyable and sustainable can

significantly enhance longevity and overall well-being. Additionally, incorporating physical therapy is a

great tool to further support mobility, pain management, and recovery from injuries. It’s never too late

to start moving—your future self will thank you!

Aging is a natural part of life and guaranteed to happen, but maintaining an active lifestyle can help us

age gracefully and healthily. One of the most important factors to promote health and longevity is

regular physical activity. Regular and consistent activity will help maintain and improve our physical,

mental, and emotional well-being as we grow older.

Below are other factors that will improve with activity including overall mobility, balance, and even

enhancement in cognitive function. It is vital to stay active as it plays a crucial role in overall quality of

life. We will also discuss how physical therapy can be a valuable tool in supporting healthy aging by

addressing specific mobility issues, chronic pain, and recovery from injuries or surgeries.

Benefits of Physical Activity for Aging Adults

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Engaging in regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, helps keep the heart strong and

reduces the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.

2. Enhances Mobility and Flexibility

Aging naturally leads to a decline in muscle mass and joint flexibility. However, strength training, yoga,

and stretching exercises help maintain balance, coordination, and overall mobility, reducing the risk of

falls and injuries.

• Adults over the age of 30 lose 3% to 5% of their muscle mass per decade if they are inactive.

• By the age of 60, sedentary individuals may have lost up to 10% to 15% of their muscle mass.

3. Boosts Mental Health

Exercise releases endorphins, which can help combat depression, anxiety, and stress. Physical activity

has also been linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline and conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

4. Supports Bone Health

Weight-bearing exercises like walking and resistance training help maintain bone density, reducing the

risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

• After the age of 50, women can lose up to 1% of their bone density each year, increasing their

risk of osteoporosis.

• Men also experience bone loss, though at a slower rate, with an estimated 0.3% to 0.5%

decrease per year.

5. Enhances Social Interaction

Group exercise classes, community walks, or team sports can provide social opportunities, reducing

feelings of isolation and loneliness.

6. Aids in Weight Management

Metabolism slows with age, making it easier to gain weight. Regular physical activity helps burn calories

and maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity-related conditions.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Aging

Some key benefits of physical therapy for older adults include:

-Pain Management: Physical therapists can create personalized programs to alleviate pain from

arthritis, osteoporosis, and other age-related conditions.

-Fall Prevention: Balance training and strengthening exercises help reduce the risk of falls, which

are a leading cause of injury among older adults.

-Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: Physical therapy aids in recovery after joint replacements,

fractures, or other surgeries, improving mobility and function.

-Chronic Condition Management: Individuals with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke,

or multiple sclerosis can benefit from specialized physical therapy to maintain movement and

independence.

-Improved Daily Function: Exercises focused on strength, coordination, and flexibility help older

adults perform daily activities with greater ease and confidence.

Resources for Staying Active

1. National Institute on Aging – Exercise & Physical Activity

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/exercise-physical-activity

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Physical Activity for Older Adults

https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/older_adults

3. SilverSneakers – Fitness Programs for Seniors

https://www.silversneakers.com/

4. Go4Life – Exercise and Fitness for Older Adults

https://go4life.nia.nih.gov/

5. American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) – Aging & Physical Therapy

https://www.choosept.com