Four new studies published in the Archives of Internal Medicine link exercise with healthy aging.
In an editorial accompanying the reports, Drs. Jeff Williamson and Marco Pahor of the University of Florida, wrote: “Regular physical activity has also been associated with greater longevity as well as reduced risk of physical disability and dependence, the most important health outcome, even more than death, for most older people.”
In the first study, researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School found that among women aged 70 and older, those who engaged in regular physical activity during middle age were more likely to show signs of better overall health, according to MediLexicon.
Another study linked resistance training to improved cognitive skills in older women. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups that undertook a particular exercise program for a year. Researchers from Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute and University of British Columbia reported that those in the resistance training groups performed better on a cognitive test of selective attention and conflict resolution.
Exercise may be linked to reduced cognitive impairment in adults, according to the third study. Researchers in Germany followed a group of older adults for two years and found that moderate or high physical activity appeared to be linked with a lower risk of developing cognitive impairment.
The final study looked at the link between exercise and bone health. German researchers recruited and randomly assigned more than 240 women aged 65 and older to follow an exercise program or a wellness program for 18 months. Those in the exercise group appeared to have denser bones and a reduced risk of falls but not a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
These studies are just another clear indicator that seniors should stay as active as they can, as it will only be beneficial to their overall health and reduce mental decline. Although you may not be able to find the time to get your loved one up and out of the house, you can always find help at your local Home Instead Senior Care. CAREGivers are passionate about their work, and they can help motivate your loved one into participating in even the simplest forms of activity.
Home Instead Senior Care will provide outstanding caregivers to help your loved one with personal care, incidental travel, companionship, medication reminders, light housekeeping, and even meal preparation. To learn more, call 248-203-2273 or visit www.homeinstead.com. Home Instead Senior Care is the world’s trusted source of in-home non-commercial personal care and companionship for seniors. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. And remember, to us, it’s personal.
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