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There are many
reasons that older persons have low levels of physical activity, and as a result
there is no single solution to the problem. The population of older men and
women encompasses the whole range of health status—everyone from people who run
marathons to frail adults confined to a wheelchair. There are no "one size fits
all" approaches. A variety of barriers
may make it harder for older persons to increase and maintain their physical
activity. Some neighborhoods and communities are poorly designed or unsafe, a
particular obstacle for elderly persons who may feel especially vulnerable to
crime or traffic. Many have chronic medical conditions that require more care
and planning in how they exercise. Older adults may have trouble getting to
facilities and programs, and those facilities may not provide adequate training
and monitoring for older adults beginning a program.
Finally, health care professionals may lack the
time or expertise to address problems of physical inactivity among their older
patients. They often lack information about quality programs, about materials,
and about how to make referrals to community resources. Finally, many older
adults serve as caregivers for others, which can restrict their opportunities
for regular physical activity. Often these caregiving responsibilities lead to
poor health and depression for the caregiver.
Exercise can improve the physical and mental
health of people who care full time for a family member. The Administration on
Aging's National Family Caregiver Support Program provides support for family
caregivers, and through its counseling and support services encourages proper
eating and healthy lifestyles. The role of promoting physical activity involves
diverse groups, including businesses, public health agencies, health care
providers and organizations, transportation, housing, parks and recreation, and
aging services organizations. |
