The Many Benefits of Exercise as we Age
FROM: The New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs)
With the recent release of the Ministry of Health’s Healthy Ageing Strategy there is an increased focus on living not
just longer but maintaining health and wellbeing by creating opportunities in a range of areas for older people.
While medical care and access to medical services is an important part of the strategy, the focus is also on developing
communities, encouraging active and connected lives and preventative services.
The Healthy Ageing Strategy vision is that “older people live well, age well, and have a respectful end of life in
age-friendly communities”, it seeks to maximise health and wellbeing for all older people.
However, adults aged 65 years and over are more likely to be sedentary than those under 65 years. These activity rates
decline even more as adults aged 75 years and over, are less likely to be physically active than those under 75 years.
Older adults that are not active are missing out on many of the benefits of being active, and it’s not just about being
able to live a full life. There are very real benefits to all aspects of life that sedentary older adults are missing
out on through their inactivity.
Any physical activity is better than none at al. It can be as simple as aiming to sit less and get out and about more,
adding movement into everyday tasks, as well as seeking opportunities for more structured exercise.
Many exercise facilities, recreation centres and pools offer classes and sessions that are most suitable for the older
exerciser.
While exercising can be added to regular tasks, the advantages of getting involved with a facility or group are many
including being able to access expert advice, and it has been proven that spending time with others adds to our sense of
wellbeing.
A range of physical activities is best, allowing variety and benefits across a range of activity areas.
Anything that gets your heart rate up and makes your breathing heavier will have a positive effect on aerobic levels and
heart health. Balance exercises will help prevent falls, and strength exercises can assist with maintaining posture and
help with daily tasks.
If you are a senior and new to exercising, it is wise to start off slowly. Do speak to your doctor before starting or
increasing physical activity. They are likely to be supportive of your increased activity, and can offer advice on
making sure any medical conditions or injuries are managed.
The Ministry of Health suggest older adults do 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on 5 days or more per week. They
have several resources available at their website to help you on your way to physical activity as an older adult.
References:
https://www.health.govt.nz/publication/guidelines-physical-activity-older-people-aged-65-years-and-over
http://www.health.govt.nz/publication/healthy-ageing-strategy