Physical activity and the health of the elderly: Benefits, types and barriers

Abstract

Physical activity is any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure. Physical activity is any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure. Some of the benefits of Physical Activity helps maintain the ability to live independently and reduces the risk of falling and fracturing bones, reduces the risk of dying from coronary heart disease and of developing high blood pressure, colon cancer, and diabetes. Also to the elderly it helps maintains independent living, Better cardiovascular health, May assist cognitive function, Reduces anxiety and depression, helps with flexibility, improves strength, and improves bone density. For some elderly, access to and the cost of acceptable exercise opportunities limit engagement in physical activities. Social and environmental factors have also been identified as impacting older adults' engagement in physical activity young ones should encourage them to participate in physical activity during their leisure time.