The facts:
Improvements in fitness and oxygen consumption with training are similar for younger or older men and women. Though, an older person will generally start at a lower level and peak at a lower level than a younger person. Older subjects show greater gains in muscle oxidative enzyme activities. Aging appears neither to impair the ability to improve muscle strength nor prevent muscle growth.
Exercise can help arthritic patients by increasing strength and mobility.
Older people who exercise have: Higher VO2max values and half the expected decrease in VO2max due to age Higher HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol Enhanced glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity Greater strength, reaction time, and a lower risk of falling Increased bone density (reduced chance of osteoporosis)
Guidelines:
Always get a medical examination and clearance before starting an exercise program. All equipment should be safe and inspected regularly for defects. Training equipment should be located in an uncrowded area. There must be adequate supervision by an experienced and registered trainer to ensure correct technique is used. Programs should start with regular stretching and strengthening exercises, with a progression to more dynamic aerobic activities. Cycling and swimming are recommended over jogging. Older people are generally less tolerant of environmental stress so restrict training in extreme temperatures. Until they are experienced in weight training, only use exercises that require them to keep both feet on the ground (e.g. Squats instead of Lunges). This will reduce their risk of falling and injuring themselves. Ensure all abdominal work is done on the floor and not on the Swiss Ball. Only light lifting should be done above the head. No isometric exercises.
Psychological Benefits of Exercise for the Elderly
Whilst the physical benefits of exercise are quite obvious, the psychological benefits aren't as commonly known. Many studies have shown that older exercisers get great benefits out of the interaction with others their age, and many people see a marked increase in self-esteem. But it goes much further than that. Quite a lot of these people enjoy the different environment and discussion that goes along with it. Many older people have never been to a fitness centre or participated in a diet program because they led an active lifestyle and ate fresh, healthy foods (unlike us younger folk!), so this is all quite new to them!
