This article addresses the motivation of elders to initiate
exercise. It is part of the study guide on geriatric rehabilitation
in the Self-Directed Physiatric Education Program for practitioners
and trainees in physical medicine and rehabilitation and
geriatric medicine. This article specifically focuses on the
health benefits of exercise, describes a theoretical model for
assessing and improving an individual’s motivation to pursue
exercise, details the particular challenges elders face in initiating
and adhering to an exercise program, and outlines professional
interventions to address these obstacles.
Overall Article Objective: To explore the particular challenges
elders face in motivation to exercise and to develop a
systematic approach for counseling elders toward greater activity.