Upping the ante: working harder to address physical inactivity in older adults. Issue 5 (September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Taylor, Denise; Binns, Elizabeth; Signal, Nada
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in psychiatry. Volume 30:Issue 5(2017:Sep.)
• Publication Date: 2017-09
• Subjects: cognition -- exercise -- high intensity -- older adults -- physical activity -- sarcopenia; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1097/YCO.0000000000000349
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0951-7367

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose of review: Physical inactivity in older adults is associated with declining functional capacity, sarcopenia, metabolic changes, and cognitive changes. Current Physical Activity Guidelines recommend 150 min of moderate-intensity exercise along with strengthening and balance exercises. Despite the guidelines there is little evidence of a population-based change in physical activity. Recent findings: There is a growing body of research investigating the use of high-intensity interval training in older adult to improve health-related outcomes. Research indicates that high-intensity interval training confers greater benefit than moderate-intensity exercise and is acceptable and safe for older adults and those with various noncommunicable diseases. Summary: A major challenge to health systems is the growing number of people surviving into older age, many of whom have more than one noncommunicable disease. Physical inactivity is a modifiable risk factor for the development of noncommunicable diseases. Increasing participation in physical activity interventions, particularly those at a high intensity, appears to be a safe and feasible approach to reducing the demand on healthcare systems into the future.