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Review
. 2016 Jun 23;11(1):42-57.
doi: 10.1177/1559827615571897. eCollection 2017 Jan-Feb.

State of the Art Review: Physical Activity and Older Adults

Caroline A Macera  1   2   3 , Alyson Cavanaugh  1   2   3 , John Bellettiere  1   2   3
Affiliations
Review

State of the Art Review: Physical Activity and Older Adults

Caroline A Macera et al. Am J Lifestyle Med. .

Abstract

Physical activity is an important component of a healthy lifestyle for all adults and especially for older adults. Using information from the updated 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines, 3 dimensions of physical activity are identified for older adults. These include increasing aerobic activity, increasing muscle-strengthening activity, and reducing sedentary or sitting behavior. Although the overall goal of the physical activity recommendations is to prevent chronic diseases and conditions from developing, many older adults are already affected. Therefore, suggested types of physical activity are described for specific diseases and conditions that are designed to mediate the condition or prevent additional disability. Finally, barriers to participation in physical activity specific to older adults are described, and possible solutions offered. Encouraging older adults to continue or even start a physical activity program can result in major health benefits for these individuals.

Keywords: barriers; chronic disease; muscle strengthening; older adults; physical activity; sedentary behavior.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Participation in Aerobic and Muscle-Strengthening Activities National Health Interview Survey, Adults 45-75+, United States, 2012.a aSource: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/hus/hus13.pdf.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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