Exercise Recommendations

Increasing the functional abilities of the individual should be kept in mind when developing the exercise program. Depending on the individual different modes of exercise should be considered. Walking is the most common aerobic activity in older adults. Large muscle groups and weight bearing aerobic exercises should be emphasized whenever possible. Non-weighty bearing aerobic activities (e.g., cycling, swimming) should be used when weight bearing exercises are too strenuous. Aerobic training should be performed 3 to 5 or more days per week.  The certified personal trainer or healt/fitness specialist should encourage increased daily physical activity (e.g., climbing stairs, short walks) to improve aerobic conditioning and functional abilities.

Flexibility training (e.g., static stretching) for frail persons is important to increase joint range of motion, which can increase ease of movement with daily activities. Yoga is a form of exercise that is suitable for many frail persons. DiBenedetto and colleagues suggest that yoga can improve hip extension, stride length and pelvic tilt in the elderly population.

Sarcopenia (muscle loss) is very common in older adults and contributes to a loss of functional abilities.  This emphasizes the importance of resistance training for this population.  Resistance training increases muscle mass, muscular strength, power and endurance. Maintained or increased muscular strength can enhance functional abilities in older, frail individuals.