Exercise for over 50s

Thursday, 19 February 2009

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is dedicated to fighting heart disease and promoting healthier lifestyles, and is urging the elderly to get 30 minutes of exercise a day.

The 30 a Day UK-wide campaign is targeting those who are over 50 who are not getting the recommended amount of physical activity. There are numerous things that can be done to increase one's mobility that do not require a great deal of exercise. BHF advocates activities such as washing the car, gardening or swimming. The BHF is also urging GPs and other primary care staff to provide advice on physical activity. Surveys reveal that almost 60 per cent of over-50s have not discussed their physical activity levels with their GP since turning 50.

“Our survey results are concerning. GPs should, as a matter of course, be discussing this issue with their patients,” said Dr Mike Knapton, Director of Prevention and Care at the BHF. “Health professionals can do more in prompting patients to get active. They could motivate big changes by asking a few simple questions.”

The BHF suggests fitness checks at 50 and at 60, focusing on disease prevention rather than treatment.

According to statistics, someone in the UK dies directly from physical inactivity every 15 minutes. However, even 30 minutes of activity a day can prevent heart disease and other illnesses. A good rule of thumb is to see if the activity makes you feel warm and breathe harder - if this is the case, then it will benefit your health. The BHF suggests a number of activities including sex, walking briskly, vacuuming and playing Frisbee. For those less strenuous, the good news is that the 30 minutes can be broken into 10 or 15 minute sessions.

Statistics have shown that people who take regular physical activity are much more likely to have twice the protection against coronary heart disease, compared to those who are inactive. Currently, a mere 30% of UK 50-64 year olds take the recommended physical activity amount and as people get older, it gets worse. A paltry 6% of 65-84 year olds in England get enough exercise. According to a YouGov poll, three out of five 50-65 year olds are aware of how much activity they should be embarking upon but very few are willing to fulfil the need and this has led to half this age group are worried about their inactivity.

Frequent regular exercise will help people dramatically improve their heart as well as their health, balance, mobility and mental state of mind.

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