Myths About Exercise & Older Adults Courtney McLaughlin & Mariah Brown

Facts 1 of 4 people between the age of 65 & 74 exercise regularly. Older people often assume that they’re too out-of- shape, or sick or tired or just plain too old. Exercise can help make you stronger, prevent bone loss, improve balance and coordination, lift your mood, boost your memory, and ease the symptoms of many chronic conditions.

Exercise Myth: Trying to exercise and get healthy is pointless—decline in old age is inevitable. Some people in their 70s, 80, and 90s are out there running marathons and becoming body builders. A lot of the symptoms that we associate with old age—such as weakness and loss of balance are actually symptoms of inactivity, not age. (Alicia Arbaje, MD, assistant professor at Johns Hopkins. Exercise improves more than your physical health, it can boost memory and help prevent dementia. It can also help you maintain your independence and your way of life, if you stay strong and agile as you age, you will be able to keep doing the things you enjoy.

Exercise Myth: Exercise isn’t safe for someone my age—I don’t want to fall and break a hip. Studies show that exercise can reduce your chances of a fall. Exercise builds strength, balance, and agility. Older people worried about things like osteoporosis and weak bones should exercise regularly to help strengthen them.

Exercise Myth: I’m afraid I might have a heart attack. Having a heart attack while exercising can happen.. However, the many health benefits of exercise far exceed the small risk. “Being a couch potato is actually more dangerous than being physically active.” says Chhanda Dutta, PhD.

Exercise Myth: I never really exercised before—its too late to make a difference in my health. Studies have found that even people in their 90s living in nursing homes, starting an exercise routine can boost muscle strength. Starting exercise late in life can still cut the risk of health problems. “It really is never too late to start exercising and reaping the benefits.” Dutta.

Exercise Myth: Gyms are for young people. Look to see if gyms in your area have offerings for seniors or people new to exercise. If you’re retired, try going in the middle of the day. Avoid the before and after-work rush. “Find an environment where you feel comfortable exercising” says Arbaje.

Exercise Myth: Exercise is boring. “Don’t forget sex” says Arbaje. “That’s good exercise too.” The key is to figure out something you enjoy doing and do that. The best exercise is the one that you actually do.