As the baby boomer generation begins to comprise a larger and larger segment of the population, physical fitness programs and exercises have become extremely important. Increased physical fitness levels during the latter years of life are vital for performance of activities of daily living and overall improvement in quality of life. More than ever, research is being conducted that indicates senior involvement in physical fitness activities can provide many specific physical and mental benefits.
Muscular Fitness Benefits
Resistance training programs have been shown to be highly effective for improving muscular strength and fitness in senior citizens. In the July 2010 journal of "Ageing Research Reviews," investigators reported on a comprehensive study that examined 47 research articles on the benefits of resistance training for senior citizens. They determined that resistance training was highly helpful in improving strength levels of senior citizens. The researchers also concluded that high-intensity resistance training was even more effective for improving strength in senior citizens.
Cardiovascular Fitness Benefits
Cardiovascular fitness benefits are particularly important for senior citizens. Recent research has shown that aerobic exercise has a positive effect on heart health. In the April 2009 "Journal of the American Medical Association," researchers reported on a study looking at the effects of aerobic exercise on patients with chronic heart failure. Results of the study indicated that aerobic exercise significantly reduced the risk of death and hospitalization the subjects.
Psychological Benefits
One of the biggest benefits of physical fitness for seniors is its effect on cognitive functions. In the January 2010 "Archives of Neurology," researchers reported on a study looking at the effects of high-intensity aerobic exercise on cognitive functions of senior citizens. Results of the study indicated that senior citizens who were in the high-intensity aerobic exercise group experienced greater improvements in cognitive functions than those in the lower-intensity aerobic exercise group.
References
- "Archives of Neurology"; Effects of Aerobic Exercise on Mild Cognitive Impairment; L. Baker, et. al.; January 2010.
- "Ageing Research Reviews"; Resistance Exercise for Muscular Strength in Older Adults: A Meta-Analysis; M. Peterson, M. Rhea, A. Sen and P. Gordon; July 2010
- "Journal of the American Medical Association"; Efficacy and Safety of Exercise Training in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure; C. O'Connor, et. al.; April 2009
