Related Topics
Arthritis: An Overview (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00208)
Knee Arthritis (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00212)
Osteoarthritis of the Hip (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00213)
Osteoporosis (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00232)
Seniors and Exercise (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00380)
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Copyright
2007
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Effects of Aging
It's no secret that our bodies change as we age. Some changes are obvious, while others are more subtle. Many people age comfortably and remain active, alert, and vibrant throughout their lives. Their physiologic age may be quite younger than their chronological age. Others may experience the effects of osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, which can gradually diminish their abilities to participate fully in activities. Knowing what to expect and taking steps to counterbalance the effects of aging can help you maintain a young spirit and an independent life. A healthy diet, regular exercise program, and positive attitude can help delay the onset and slow the progression of many age-related changes. Aging Muscles:
Throughout life, bones constantly change through a process of absorption and formation called "remodeling." As we age, the balance between bone absorption and bone formation changes, resulting in a loss of bone tissue.
Many of the changes in our musculoskeletal system result more from disuse than from simple aging. Fewer than 10 percent of Americans participate in regular exercise, and the most sedentary group is older than 50 years of age. Stretching is an excellent way to help maintain joint flexibility. Weight training can increase muscle mass and strength, enabling people to continue their daily routine activities without maximal exertion. Even moderate amounts of physical activity can reduce your risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, and some forms of cancer. Long-term regular exercises may slow the loss of muscle mass and prevent age-associated increases in body fat. Exercise also helps maintain the body's response time, as well as its ability to deliver and use oxygen efficiently. Just 30 minutes of moderate activity, incorporated into your daily routine, can provide health benefits. An exercise program doesn't have to be strenuous to be effective. Walking, square dancing, swimming, and bicycling are all recommended activities for maintaining fitness as we age. The 30 minutes of moderate activity can be broken up into shorter periods. For example, you might spend 15 minutes working in the garden in the morning and 15 minutes walking in the afternoon. It all adds up. But if you have never attempted an exercise program before, be sure to see your doctor before starting one now. Last reviewed and updated:
July
2007
AAOS does not review or endorse accuracy or effectiveness of materials, treatments or physicians.
Copyright
2007
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Related Topics
Arthritis: An Overview (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00208)
Knee Arthritis (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00212)
Osteoarthritis of the Hip (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00213)
Osteoporosis (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00232)
Seniors and Exercise (http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00380)
Your Orthopaedic Connection
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 6300 N. River Road Rosemont, IL 60018 Phone: 847.823.7186 Email: orthoinfo@aaos.org |
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