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Abstract
To issue a recommendation on the types and amounts of physical activity needed to
improve and maintain health in older adults.
A panel of scientists with expertise in public health, behavioral science, epidemiology,
exercise science, medicine, and gerontology.
The expert panel reviewed existing consensus statements and relevant evidence from
primary research articles and reviews of the literature.
After drafting a recommendation for the older adult population and reviewing drafts
of the Updated Recommendation from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
and the American Heart Association (AHA) for Adults, the panel issued a final recommendation
on physical activity for older adults.
The recommendation for older adults is similar to the updated ACSM/AHA recommendation
for adults, but has several important differences including: the recommended intensity
of aerobic activity takes into account the older adult's aerobic fitness; activities
that maintain or increase flexibility are recommended; and balance exercises are recommended
for older adults at risk of falls. In addition, older adults should have an activity
plan for achieving recommended physical activity that integrates preventive and therapeutic
recommendations. The promotion of physical activity in older adults should emphasize
moderate-intensity aerobic activity, muscle-strengthening activity, reducing sedentary
behavior, and risk management.