As you get older, it becomes increasingly important to maintain an active lifestyle in order to remain healthy and maintain independence. Despite this, low levels of physical activity are reported among older people, with only 30% of people aged >65 years reporting regular exercise. Remaining as active as possible will enable older people to continue enjoying everyday activities, such as walking, playing with grandchildren, leisure activities and socialising with friends.
Regular physical activity has numerous benefits for older adults who are frail or at high risk of frailty. Studies have shown that older people who regularly exercise are healthier and less likely to develop serious long-term conditions than those leading a sedentary lifestyle. Exercise is effective in preventing and managing chronic conditions commonly experienced by older people, including heart disease, osteoarthritis, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and depression. Regular physical activity also plays a crucial part in preventing falls, the leading cause of injury and death among people 65 and older.