Seniors, It’s Time to Get MOVING! (Here’s Why)

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to prioritize our health and well-being.

While there are many factors that contribute to a long and healthy life, a new study confirms that one of the most powerful tools at our disposal is something that’s accessible to almost everyone: aerobic exercise.

The meta-analysis analyzed the results of 26 systematic reviews of 199 unique cohort studies, involving a staggering 20.9 million researcher observations.

The findings, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, are clear: people who regularly engage in aerobic exercise have a significantly greater chance of living longer and a lower risk of heart disease.

What precisely is aerobic exercise and how does it benefit our hearts and overall health? Aerobic exercise, also known as cardio, is any activity that gets your heart pumping and your blood flowing.

This can include activities like brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or even dancing. When you engage in aerobic exercise, you’re strengthening your heart muscle and improving your cardiovascular fitness.

The study found that for every additional 1-MET (metabolic equivalent of task) exerted via aerobic exercise, the risk of all-cause death lowered from 11 percent to 17 percent, and the risk of heart failure reduced by up to 18 percent.

To put this in perspective, 1-MET is the amount of energy spent sitting quietly. So, even a relatively small increase in your physical activity can have a profound impact on your health and longevity.

As seniors, it’s never too late to start incorporating aerobic exercise into your daily routine. Dr. Jayne Morgan, a cardiologist, explained it best, “the heart is providing oxygen to every organ and tissue within the body. This allows for optimal performance of the body. As heart function declines, other organ systems are at risk of both a decreased blood flow as well as a decreased oxygen uptake and delivery. The stronger the heart, the more efficiently it pumps blood, keeping other tissues healthy and performing optimally.”

In addition to reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension, regular aerobic exercise can also help keep cholesterol levels in check and improve your body’s response to stress.

It has even been linked to a reduced risk of some cancers, dementia, depression, kidney disease, and type 2 diabetes.

Of course, everyone responds to exercise differently, and it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise regimen. Factors like genetics, age, sex, overall health status, and lifestyle all play a role in determining the type and intensity of exercise that’s right for you.

For some seniors, a brisk walk at low intensity for 20-30 minutes a few times a week may be enough to see substantial benefits. Others may be able to engage in more vigorous activities like swimming or cycling. The key is to find an activity that you enjoy and can stick with long-term.

So, seniors, it’s time to get moving. Whether it’s a daily walk around the neighborhood, a swim at the local pool, or a dance class with friends, making aerobic exercise a regular part of your routine can help keep your heart strong and add years to your life.

To a healthier, happier, and longer life,

Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team

Sources:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cardiorespiratory-fitness-reduces-death-heart-disease-risk