"The groundwork of all happiness is health." - Leigh Hunt

A walking program is related to less disability.

News briefs

Photo: Digitalskillit/Thinkstock

Falls are the leading reason for disability for older adults. But a study published on September 26, 2016 History of Internal Medicinesuggests that adopting a daily routine of moderate physical activity, similar to walking, helps older adults stay mobile longer and might also help them recuperate faster from physical disability. Researchers analyzed data from a previous randomized controlled trial during which 1,600 sedentary adults aged 70 to 89 were divided into two groups. One group received ongoing health education classes that included upper body stretching exercises. The second group participated in a structured exercise program several days per week that included walking and a few strength, flexibility, and balance training. The researchers followed the 2 groups over a period of three and a half years. The latest study concluded that individuals within the exercise group had a 25 percent reduction within the time they developed a significant disability in comparison with those within the health education group. People within the exercise group also gave the impression to be less prone to experience disability in the primary place, and more prone to recuperate in the event that they did.

No material on this site, no matter date, must be used as an alternative to direct medical advice out of your doctor or other qualified practitioner.