Minnesota Safety Council: PREVENTING FALLS: FACTS ABOUT PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

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PREVENTING FALLS: FACTS ABOUT OLDER ADULTS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Few older adults achieve the minimum recommended level of moderate activity (30 or more minutes on five or more days per week).

Inactivity can lead to frailty, poor health and dependence.

Every year, fall-related injuries among older people cost the nation more than $19 billion. By 2020, the total annual cost of these injuries is expected to reach $43.8 billion.

Programs to build muscle strength, improve balance and promote walking have been shown to significantly reduce falls in older persons (Gillespie et al, 2002).

Currently, almost one-third of total U.S. health care expenditures is for older adults (over age 65).

Lack of physical activity and poor diet are among the major causes of an epidemic of obesity in the United States. Since 1990, cases of obesity have increased more than 50 percent among the elderly.

Exercise can reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases and can aid in the management of active problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity or high cholesterol.

Exercise can improve the ability to function and stay independent.

Substantial health benefits occur with a moderate amount of activity.

Older exercisers are not only more likely to live to an advanced old age, but are more likely than non-exercisers to remain independent right up to the end of their lives.

Activity should include four necessary types of exercise: endurance, strength, balance and flexibility.

Older adults should check with a doctor before beginning a new physical activity program.
Adults who have inactive should start with short 5-10 minute intervals of moderate physical activity and gradually build up.

Acknowledgments:
National Institute on Aging
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services