SENIOR CITIZEN TRAINING
Regular exercise and training in older adults can improve flexibility, improve balance and coordination, decrease the risk of falls, enhance glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, improve reaction time and can help maintain healthy blood lipid values.
Most importantly, regular training can assist an older adult in maintaining independence
Exercise can promote and prolong independence in older adults. Oftentimes, functional goals are more appropriate for these clients than significant weight loss. In fact, weight loss goals for older adults can sometimes be dangerous for their overall health.
Approximately 25% of weight loss attempted by older adults intentionally can result in a significant decrease in muscle mass. Weight loss in older females carries a 1.8 times greater risk of hip fracture.
Although high BMI can also be a health hazard, it is more appropriate to direct older clients to exercise regularly, set reasonable goals and consume a nutrient dense moderate diet to promote overall health