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.