getting older is getting better

(National Institute on Aging) - Most older people don’t get enough physical activity. Here are some reasons why they should:

• Lack of physical activity and not eating the right foods, taken together, are the second greatest underlying cause of death in the United States. (Smoking is the #1 cause.)

• Exercise can help older people feel better and enjoy life more. No one is too old or too out of shape to be more active.

• Regular exercise can prevent or delay some diseases like cancer, heart disease, or diabetes. It can perk up your mood and help depression, too.

• Being active can help older people stay independent and able to keep doing things like getting around or dressing themselves.

So, make physical activity a part of your everyday life. Find things you enjoy. Go for it!

Who Should Exercise?

Almost anyone, at any age, can improve his or her health by doing some type of activity. But, check with your doctor first if you plan to do strenuous activity (the kind that makes you breathe hard and sweat) and you are a man over 40 or a woman over 50. Your doctor might be able to give you a go-ahead over the phone, or he or she might ask you to come in for a visit.

You can still exercise even if you have a long-term condition like heart disease or diabetes. In fact, physical activity may help your illness, but only if it’s done during times when your condition is under control. During flare-ups, exercise could be harmful. If you have any of the following problems, it’s important to check with your doctor before starting an exercise program: a chronic disease, or a high risk of getting one—for example, if you smoke, if you are obese, or if you have a family history of a long-term disease

Here are some things you can do to make sure you are exercising safely:

• Start slowly. Little by little build up your activities and how hard you work at them.

• If you are taking any medicines or have any illnesses that change your natural heart rate, don’t use your pulse rate as a way of judging how hard you should exercise. One example of this kind of medicine is a type of blood pressure drug known as a beta blocker.

• Use safety equipment to keep you from getting hurt. That means, for example, a helmet for bike riding or the right shoes for walking or jogging.

• Drink plenty of fluids. Many older people tend to be low on fluid much of the time, even when not exercising.

• Warm up your muscles before you stretch. For example, do a little easy biking or walking and light arm pumping first.

Exercises should not hurt or make you feel really tired. You might feel some soreness, a little discomfort, or a bit weary, but you should not feel pain. In fact, in many ways, being physically active will probably make you feel better.

HOW TO FIND OUT MORE Local gyms, universities, or hospitals might be able to help you find a teacher or program that works for you. You can also check with nearby churches or synagogues, senior and civic centers, parks, recreation associations, YMCAs, YWCAs, or even area shopping malls for exercise, wellness, or walking programs.