Regular exercise is recommended for everyone, no matter age or sex. However, the benefits are different depending on what stage of life a person is in. For all people exercise can help improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and decrease obesity and obesity-related diseases. For senior men, regular exercise can help in many other areas of health and keep a person living independently longer. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, seniors benefit more from regular exercise than younger individuals.
Frailty Syndrome
As defined by Matteo Cesari and colleagues in the May 2006 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," frailty syndrome is a state of vulnerability for adverse health outcomes. People who have lower muscle mass and density and have a higher fat mass are at risk for frailty. Regular exercise can protect against the decline of physiological systems that is age-related, report F. Landi and colleagues in the October 2010 issue of "Biogerontology." This physical activity will maintain or increase muscle mass and decrease fat content.
Chronic Illness and Cancers
Regular exercise will help to prevent or manage chronic illnesses. Many of these chronic illness are related to obesity and excess weight. Diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are just a few diseases that can be managed or prevented with 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Moreover, AHRQ reports, recent studies as of 2010 show a decrease in colon cancer in those people who participate in regular exercise.
Depression
Exercising on a regular basis can improve mood and decrease depression. Depression is a common problem faced by the aging community. Physical activity can improve a person ability to be mobile, visit friends and family, and keep more socially active, notes AHRQ. Exercising with a friend can be a start to keeping social and can help to keep people exercising longer.
Financial Effect
Exercising regularly can save a senior man money by decreasing health care bills. Such activity can decrease disability, falls, hospitalizations, institutionalization and mortality. A person can remain independent longer and continue to function better as well. Exercising regularly offers a chance for a longer life with higher quality.
