Can exercise help the "old, old" stay active and independent? Yes, according to a 16-week study of 64 people, average age 83, undertaken by Ross Andel, an assistant professor in the School of Aging Studies at the University of Southern Florida. The participants were randomly assigned to a twice-a-week fitness program (either walking or resistance training in a gym), or to a control group, which got no organized exercise.
To gauge the effects of exercise, the researchers measured blood pressure, resting heart rate, upper and lower body strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. While none of the groups had much change in heart rate or blood pressure, the resistance and walking groups both improved on virtually every measure of strength, flexibility and coordination, while the control group improved only on coordination.
To gauge the effects of exercise, the researchers measured blood pressure, resting heart rate, upper and lower body strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. While none of the groups had much change in heart rate or blood pressure, the resistance and walking groups both improved on virtually every measure of strength, flexibility and coordination, while the control group improved only on coordination.
According to Ross Andel, the type of improvements observed could help seniors live independently. Simple abilities that young people take for granted, like reaching up into a kitchen cabinet, or being able to dress, are critical to independence.
Ross Andel, when asked if one is ever too old to exercise, responded, "It's almost the older you are, the more important it becomes, but it's always important."
No comments:
Post a Comment