Older Adults Should Subscribe to Daily Walks

While there is no question that childhood obesity has moved to epidemic proportions, adult obesity is no better. Public health officials around the country are equally concerned about adult obesity, yet, and unfortunately, more recent programs seem to focus on children.  Adults and even senior citizens can reduce their body mass indices through behavioral changes that can ward off diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.

As the population grows and the Baby Boomers start turning 65, the health needs of this group will also expand. According to the journal Long-Term Living: For the Continuing Care Professional, the aging of the population is expected to bring an increase of chronic illnesses, many which can be avoided or delayed through a change in health habits. Numerous studies have shown that healthy habits, even when formed late in life, can improve health and delay the onset of diseases or even prevent them from occurring. Illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure or hypertension, cardiovascular disease are costly to treat, especially in the elderly who often suffer from multiple health issues. Slowing the progression of such diseases through improved health habits could lower the costs of health care, reducing the payment requirements from Medicare or Medicaid as well as out-of-pocket and private insurance expenses.

While most adults, especially senior citizens, cannot participate in high-intensity sporting activities, they can do one cost-effective and easy activity: walking. Research around the world has discovered that walking at any age can combat obesity. Senior citizens who walk every day can increase their lean muscle mass, reduce their body fat, and increase their heart health.  The benefits of walking for senior citizens are numerous and include improved mobility that can lead to an improved quality of life.

Anyone over the age of 60 should be able to slip on a pair of sneakers and go for a walk. Walking can be done anywhere, but in Crawford County, we are especially blessed with multiple walking paths. These include the trail at Oil Creek State Park in Titusville as well as the Ernst Trail in Meadville. Other walking places include neighborhoods with little traffic as well as college campuses throughout Crawford County. If the weather is too cold, treadmill walking is a good option. Various fitness centers or senior citizen centers offer free or low-cost memberships for older adults.

With so many options, there is no excuse for not walking.  And the benefits can result in a higher quality of life and reduce health care expenses over the long haul. So, what are you waiting for?

Reference:

Keogh, S. V. (2010). Promoting best outcomes in the bariatric elder. Long-Term Living: For the Continuing Care Professional, January, 14-15.