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Importance of Older Adult Exercise Homework

Describe the older adult

The older adult in most developed nations are 65 years of age and above with the definition mostly associated with the age, an individual starts receiving a pension. Besides the use of chronology, older adults are described using changes in the social role (Cavanaugh & Fields). These changes include changes in work patterns, matured children and menopause. Older adults are considered vulnerable despite their physical ability to take care of themselves. They are more likely to suffer disproportionately in case of a disaster. Although age does not translate to vulnerabilities, certain problems that are common at an advanced age create or increase vulnerability. Older adults are less strong, intolerant to physical activity, limited functionality, and diminishing sensory awareness.

What prevents them from exercising

Discomfort and pain such as sore knees, heart conditions, and back problems limit the motivation of the elderly to engage in physical activities. Because injury takes a little time to heal in older adults, it is a legitimate concern that keeps older adults away from exercising. The decline in cognition or loss of memory sometimes acts as a barrier to exercising in older adults.

If you were assigned to make sure this person, got more exercise, what would you do to make this happen? What kind of program would you recommend?

There are various ways to overcome the barriers and make an older adult exercise. One way is to define walking as an effective physical activity that does not impact a lot on the back or other areas of discomfort. Keeping the exercises simple such as assigning chores, climbing the stairs, or simple stretching will ensure an older adult exercise. Using the appropriate equipment or assisted devices helps alleviate injury concerns by reducing the risk of falling (Warner et al). The exercises should also be measured and not overdone.

Explain What Happens if people do not exercise in their later years. What are the benefits of exercising? Be specific

The immune systems of elderly people is compromised and a continued lack of physical activity results in even more vulnerability. Exercise improves the function of the immune system. So, maintaining a regular physical exercise help prevent diseases such as diabetes and heart problems. Exercising also improves mental health by releasing endorphins or the so-called “feel-good hormone,” which relieves stress and leaves a person satisfied (Langlois et al.). Exercise improves blood circulation to the brain limiting cognition problems. Without exercising, old people lose their balance and flexibility increases the risk of falls. regular physical activity improves strength, flexibility, which consequently improves balance and coordination.

Works Cited

Cavanaugh, John C., and Fredda Blanchard-Fields. Adult development and aging. Cengage Learning, 2018.

Langlois, Francis, et al. “Benefits of physical exercise training on cognition and quality of life in frail older adults.” The Journals of Gerontology: Series B 68.3 (2013): 400-404.

Warner, Lisa M., et al. “Synergistic effect of social support and self-efficacy on physical exercise in older adults.” Journal of Aging and Physical Activity 19.3 (2011): 249-261.