New Study Reveals Advantages of Senior Exercise

Many seniors suffer from the usual aches and pains of aging and may need to have that extra special motivation to exercise. Sitting and watching TV may be easier, but it is certainly not better for the senior. Exercise definitely makes a difference. And while many seniors find it difficult to follow through with or have the energy to exercise, Home Instead Senior Care has followed the data that shows that exercise is vital to a senior’s health.¹

The study, which measured gene-expression profiles (a sort of molecular fingerprint of aging), resulted in a remarkable reversal of the "genetic fingerprint" back to levels similar to those of younger adults.

"We were very surprised by the study results," Melov said. "We expected to see gene expressions remain fairly steady in older adults. The fact that their 'genetic fingerprints' so dramatically reversed course gives credence to the value of exercise not only as a means of improving health, but as a way to help reverse the aging process itself, which is an additional incentive to exercise as you get older."

It is a common medical fact that because of a seniors’ reduced ability to respond to insulin stimulus, they lose muscle mass and grow frail as they age. Another recent study found that this drop in response to insulin can be changed by following a regular exercise routine.

Make sure that your senior loved one is partaking in daily exercise. If you find that there is a need for an exercise companion or a little motivation, call our Home Instead Senior Care office. Our CAREGivers are screened, bonded, insured and trained in all areas of senior home health services. Exercising with a partner or being brought to the local senior center for participation in exercise classes may be the motivation the senior needs.

<sub>Reference:
1. The Buck Institute for Aging.</sub>