The benefits of exercise for the health of older people

Abstract

Active lifestyles are associated with better health and lower rates of mortality from all causes. Increasing activity levels also have positive effects on many of the risk factors for developing chronic disease and on mortality rates (see Figure 1).

Evidence to support these claims, at least for middle-aged men, has accumulated steadily over the last 20 years. This review presents evidence that physical activity can contribute to health and wellbeing in old age.