ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the physiology of normal aging in both sedentary and active older adult populations, and discusses the deleterious effects of physical inactivity. The benefits of regular physical activity in older adults are extensive. Regular physical activity is associated with significant improvements in overall psychological well-being. Participation in regular physical activity has been linked to a reduced risk of dementia or cognitive decline in older adults. Physical activity can limit the impact of secondary aging through restoration of functional capacity in older adults who have been sedentary. The most popular activities in older adults tend to be of lower intensity such as walking, gardening, golf, and low-impact aerobic activities, compared to activities such as running, sports, and high-impact aerobic activities preferred by younger adults. Aerobic exercise in both young and older adults has been shown to cause beneficial changes in the cardiovascular system, musculoskeletal system, and to promote positive metabolic changes.
