Physical activity in promoting health of the elderly

Ageing, as a physiological process in human ontogenesis, is inevitable. However, it can assume a mild form. What can slow down involutionary processes within the limits of optimal human abilities and biological needs is physical activity. In addition, physical activity seems to be of great importance in the treatment and rehabilitation of various injuries and old-age diseases.

The primary objective of the paper is to show the health benefits of physical activity in involutionary processes; that is ageing of individual physiological systems and human motor skills. The work bases on available and current literature on the subject which forwards research in this field and draws on the sources relating to this particular issue. Many extensive studies indicate that physical activity is an essential element of health promotion and gerontological prophylaxis. General improvement of health due to physical activity refers to the improvement of cardiovascular and respiratory functions, prevention of degenerative changes in the spine, prevention of civilisation diseases, mental relaxation, pleasure, satisfaction, socialisation, escape from loneliness, counteracting boredom, everyday monotony, as well as spending much time in a valuable way. Properly selected and health stimulation training can enhance the general physical fitness, through better motor functions.

Along with an overall increase in life expectancy, there appears a greater need to develop research on the role of physical activity in the elderly. Physical activity in old age is a precious element of a healthy lifestyle, prevention and therapy in many diseases. It reinforces independence till old age, which is vital in coping with stress.