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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How important is physical activity when ageing?

    Related Topic
    Geriatrics & Ageing Well
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  • Jean Hailes for Women's Health

    Jean Hailes for Women’s Health is a leader in women’s health, supported by funding from the Australian Government. We provide trusted and easy-to-understand information to … View Profile

    Remaining physically fit is important, not just to maintain a healthy weight but for overall wellbeing. Regular physical activity improves your mood, cardiovascular and respiratory function, bowel regularity and also helps preserves your thinking abilities.

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  • Anna-Louise Moule

    Exercise Physiologist

    I am an Accredited Exercise Physiologist specialising in the management of chronic conditions through exercise and lifestyle management. I completed my undergraduate studies in Exercise … View Profile

    Regular physical activity which includes incidental activity and structured exercise are important for ageing well.
    Aeorobic exercise assists in preventing and managing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
    Strength training assists in maintaining and increasing bone density, muscle mass and strength which can decline with age.
    Both of these in turn contribute to a decreased chance of chronic disease and disability. Chronic disease and disability can result in a loss of independence, decreased quality of life and be financially taxing. 
    All it takes is 30mins a day of walking and a little bit of guidance for strength and balance training to help slow the ageing process

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  • Skye Fitzpatrick

    Physiotherapist

    Experienced Physiotherapist with special interest in Orthopaedic Rehabilitation following joint replacement surgery (at home following discharge). Treatments are focused on increasing strength, mobility and function. … View Profile

    Appropriate exercise as we age is very important indeed. If we have to reduce tennis skiing running etc due to injuries or degenerative conditions like Osteoarthritis we need to replace them with other weight bearing / muscle building exercise for 30-40 minutes 2-3 time per week.  It isn't necessary to go to a gym, an Experienced Physiotherapist or Exercise Physiologist can design an individualised programme of exercise to match your lifestyle and interests.  Housework and gardening do not provide the kind of activity our body thrives on.  So head for the park or the beach to escape the temptations at home. Most improtantly find appropriate exercise that you ENJOY e.g. dancing, cycling or bush walking :-)

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  • Savitri Devi

    Counsellor

    I am a counselor/psychotherapist helping various community members build their self-confidence and resourcefulness in coping with bullying, victimization, loneliness and losses. I help South Pacific … View Profile

    The human body generally responds well to physical activities.  In the ageing person, a structured form of exercise works wonders for the body and the mind.  With duration, intensity and frequency factors in mind, individuals may be assisted in choosing the right exercise.  Exercise helps improve sleep patterns, levels of anxiety and sense of well being.

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  • Dr Julie Bajic

    Psychologist

    Julie Bajic is the owner of Wise Care Pty Ltd, a specialist consultancy specialising in providing psychological services to older adults. Julie and her team … View Profile

    Physical activity is important for physical and emotional wellbeing and can assist in reducing the sytmpoms of depression and anxiety, not to mention reduced risk of falls. As we age it is particularly important to keep exercise in line with your physical health. Therefore, not trying to overdo it or not engage in enough activities. Finding the balance that works for you identifying new forms of exercise (aquarobics, tai-chi, heartmoves) will also assist you in forming new friendships and being connected with your community. 

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