A recent literature review emphasizes the critical role of physical activity in preventing and treating chronic diseases, particularly among older adults. Authored by Jane Thornton, MD, PhD, CCFP [SEM], a Canada Research Chair and Clinician Scientist, the article is directed at physicians and healthcare providers. It outlines the health benefits associated with engaging in regular physical activity and encourages healthcare professionals to promote exercise as a vital component of patient care.
The review highlights that older adults can significantly enhance their independence, cognitive function, and mental well-being through physical activity. Specifically, engaging in 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week can reduce the risk of all-cause mortality by an impressive 31%. The article advocates for a gradual approach, encouraging older individuals to start with low-impact activities like walking or swimming before progressing to the recommended 150-300 minutes per week.
Incorporating resistance and balance exercises is essential as well, ensuring older adults maintain strength and stability. Thornton underscores that even those with age-related challenges, frailty, or physical impairments can benefit from increased physical activity.
“It is never too late to incorporate more physical activity into your life,” said Thornton. This statement serves as a powerful reminder that older adults can still reap health benefits regardless of their age or existing conditions.
Ryan Glatt, MS, CPT, NBC-HWC, a senior brain health coach who contributed insights to the article, emphasized the importance of starting with manageable activities. “Older adults should begin with low impact activities, such as walking or swimming, and gradually progress toward 150–300 minutes of moderate activity per week. Incorporating resistance and balance exercises is also important, including weight-bearing activities,” he stated.
The article also addresses the issue of polypharmacy, the use of multiple medications often necessary for managing chronic conditions in older adults. Glatt pointed out that it is common for older individuals to find their pillbox overflowing due to polypharmacy. However, he noted that physical activity can offer a viable alternative or complement to medication management.
Thornton calls attention to a gap in patient counseling regarding physical activity among physicians. “Too few physicians counsel their patients on physical activity (for a variety of reasons) and we hope this becomes a call to action which at the same time helps take the guesswork on how to prescribe physical activity to older adults,” she remarked.
While the benefits of increased physical activity are substantial, Thornton also cautioned about the potential risks involved. “There is always,” she cautioned, “a (small) risk of injury or exacerbation of symptoms of their condition, and/or risk of cardiovascular event. However, similar (and often greater) risks exist with pharmaceutical and surgical modalities, and the benefits of physical activity on health generally outweigh the risks.”
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