Decreased mobility in the elderly: the exercise antidote.

Abstract

There is no age limit to the benefits of exercise. Regular activity, in fact, can often slow or reverse the decreased mobility that contributes to disease and disability in old age. Teasing out the relative contributions of disuse and genetically programmed decline can be difficult. However, clinical research demonstrates that for most elderly patients, including many who are frail or have concurrent illnesses, a program of aerobic, strength training, and flexibility exercise helps maintain mobility, improve quality of life, and prolong independence.