ABSTRACT
Older adults can benefit significantly from exercise participation; however, it is the most underutilised and under-prescribed form of treatment for ageing-associated chronic disease and disability. As an example, falls are the leading cause of hospitalisation and multiple deleterious health implications, including death, but the risk can be countered and the consequences mitigated through targeted exercise, especially if it includes strength, conditioning, and balance activities. Exercise is such a powerful tool; there is no disease that it cannot positively impact, independent of disease state, disability status, and age. While this is internationally recognised as a health benefit, health professional training and consumer health literacy are barriers to the uptake of evidence-based, person-centred exercise, targeted to the needs of the individual. To address this, we need a multilayered approach that includes government messaging, GP (General Practitioner) referrals, and aged care providers that prioritise well-being over conventional care. Most importantly, we need to start somewhere: it is time to stand up from the chair.
