New research shows light physical activity benefits in older people

Research published in the British Medical Journal shows that light physical activity reduces the risk of developing disability in older adults.

The research, which involved 1,680 men and women aged 49-83 who were free of disability, but with knee osteoarthritis (or at high risk for developing), was conducted over a two-year period and looked at the participants’ physical activity levels.

The study authors found that a greater daily amount of physical activity may reduce the risk of disability, even if the intensity of that activity is not increased.

Disability was defined as limitations in performing basic daily activities – such as walking across a room, dressing, bathing, eating, using the toilet etc – and limitations in performing higher-level tasks (such as preparing hot meals, grocery shopping, making telephone calls etc).

Commenting on the findings, James Allen, Head of Policy at the Sport and Recreation Alliance said:

“Tackling the inactivity epidemic is of paramount importance to the UK.

“Much of the focus in fighting inactivity has been on children and young people and that has meant that older adults have sometimes been left out of the discussions. Many of our members play a vital role in supporting people to remain active thorough their lives, often with schemes focussed on older people.

“This research offers a great reminder that physical activity has huge benefits for everyone, no matter what their age.

“It also offers a boost to people who, owing to ill health, may not be able to increase the intensity of their physical activity to meet government recommendations. This is another reminder that physical activity makes lives better.”

Discover more benefits of sport and recreation in the Alliance's Game of Life research.

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