A surge of recent inquiries into the preventive health benefits of exercise in
elderly patients has been generated by the growing percentage of seniors in the
population. Some data are preliminary, but many important conclusions can
be drawn that may positively affect the care and functional capacity of elderly
patients.
Exercise programs generally consist of four major components: strength,
endurance, balance, and flexibility. This article outlines the normal physiology of
each component, the natural effects of aging and the effects of medical comorbidities
on each, research into the primary effects of exercise in elderly patients,
and specific prescription recommendations