New Study Recommends Doctors Prescribe Exercise for Elderly Patients

January 28, 2025 TruthUSA

Promoting an active lifestyle is crucial for the well-being of older adults, and physicians have a responsibility to encourage this even in those in their 80s and 90s, as per a recent study.

Doctors often focus more on the risks of injury than the benefits of exercise for older adults with chronic conditions, especially those who are frail or at a high risk of falling, according to a new paper published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ).

However, research shows that strengthening the body through regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls among older adults, as stated in the CMAJ paper, with an American study indicating a 21 percent reduction in falls due to exercise and physical activity.

“Integrated exercise programs of more than five times per week and duration of more than 32 weeks were most effective in reducing fall risk,” the paper emphasized. “The prevention mechanism involves improved muscle strength, bone density, and crucially, balance and coordination.”

Engaging in physical activity can also help manage or prevent more than 30 chronic conditions that commonly affect older adults, the study noted. Among the conditions that can be improved or prevented with exercise are coronary artery disease, heart failure, Type 2 diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoporosis, depression, dementia, and cancer.

“Age, frailty, or existing functional impairments should not be seen as absolute reasons to avoid physical activity but rather as key motivators to prescribe it, considering the benefits of physical activity interventions for older adults,” the paper suggested. “Older adults who increase their physical activity levels can potentially prolong their lives and enhance their quality of life in those years.”

The review included a 2023 meta-analysis of several studies on the effects of exercise in adults. It concluded that following the World Health Organization’s guideline of participating in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week is linked to a 31% decrease in the risk of death compared to inactive individuals.

Exercise Benefits for Seniors

A regular physical activity routine has been shown to enhance cognitive function, mental health, and overall quality of life in older adults, according to the study.

An analysis of 14 studies on aging from 2021 revealed that higher levels of physical activity in older adults are associated with a lower risk of developing mild cognitive impairment and a decreased likelihood of mild dementia progressing to severe dementia. It also showed improvements in mood, self-esteem, and reductions in anxiety and depression.

Physical activity is beneficial for joint health and stronger bones. The study noted that one in five Canadian adults and nearly half of adults aged 65 or older live with arthritis. While vigorous activity may increase the risk of osteoarthritis, moderate physical activity does not.

“Regular exercise plays a vital role in managing pain and enhancing physical function,” the report stated.

The study recommended a combination of resistance training, aerobic exercise, and whole-body vibration as effective methods for improving bone health.

Walking, swimming or water aerobics, pilates, yoga, or tai chi were listed as some of the best aerobic activities for seniors. Resistance training with weights or resistance bands, as well as using vibration machines, can help boost muscle strength and improve balance, according to the study.

The report also highlighted the most suitable forms of exercise for seniors with specific health conditions.

For patients with cardiovascular disease, 30 minutes of stationary cycling five times a week is recommended, while those with high blood pressure or diabetes should include brisk walks in their weekly routine.

Aquafit classes are effective for cancer patients, and swimming and Nordic walking are beneficial for those with Osteoarthritis.

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