Exercise plays an important role in enhancing the quality of life of the older patient, although studies have shown that regular physical activity does not significantly lengthen life expectancy. Improved physiologic and psychological function helps to maintain personal independence and reduces demands for acute and chronic care services. This has significant economic benefits, as the resultant cost savings will likely cover the costs of a well-designed exercise program. Primary care physicians can help older patients to realize these benefits by encouraging them to increase their physical activity and by prescribing appropriate exercise regimens.
Shephard RJ. Exercise and aging: Extending independence in older adults. Geriatrics 1993; 48(May):61-64.
Dramatic increases in the 65- to 74-year-old and the over-85-year-old segments of the North American population have given rise to a new round of questions about the medical, social, and economic implications of increased physical activity in older adults.( n1) Primary care physicians are often called upon to answer questions patients have about the long- and short-term benefits of exercise and to prescribe appropriate exercise programs. Older patients may want to know, for example, whether they will live longer if' they exercise.
The purpose of this article is to discuss the impact of exercise upon absolute life expectancy, quality-adjusted life expectancy, and functional status (physiologic and psychological J, as well as the economic implications of exercise in this patient population.