For years, we have educated older adults and their family members to exercise frequently. Ever since I read the book, “Strong Women Stay Young”, I have discovered that individuals over the age of 80 can improve their function by strength training. In a study conducted by The Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Occupational Therapy Department, one of the authors stated, “It is well established that as people get older, they begin to lose muscle mass which can impact on their ability to do some activities of daily living.” The study goes on to state that progressive resistance muscle training has proven to increase strength and improve walking, climbing steps, or getting out of a chair for older adults. The study included 6,700 participants, ages 60 to over 80. Another benefit was shown for those with osteoarthritis as they reported less pain.
“We saw the most improvement in muscle strength, which is not a big surprise,” Liu said. “In addition, we found that this improvement translates into doing daily activities from shopping to walking around the neighborhood more easily.” One of the surprising outcomes of the review was that these benefits continued into later years. “This confirmed the positive benefits people of all ages accumulate by including progressive resistance training as a component of a well-rounded exercise program,” he said. “For the vast majority, the health risks of being sedentary are much greater than the health risks of a well balanced exercise program.”
What a great activity for family members to join a gym together to encourage and support each other through their exercise regimen. Staying healthy into later years will benefit the entire family.
By Ann R. Bannes, Vice President, Senior Solutions
Senior Solutions 