Physical activity recommendations for older Australians
Earlier this year the Australian Government announced its first recommendations for physical activity specifically targeting Australians 60 and older. Because Australia now has one of the longest life expectancies in the world it is more important than ever to keep our ageing population healthy and mobile for as long as possible, and research has clarified how to. The current life expectancy is 81.4 years but by the year 2060 the average Australian woman will reach the age of 90. There are now about 2.8 million Australians over 60, but this number is expected to triple in the next century.
It is now well known that even small changes in one’s daily habits can reap great rewards in later years, such as following the recommendation for getting at least 30 minutes per day of some physical activity.
The new governmental recommendations apply to ALL older people with all levels of health and physical ability, whether they are living at home or in an aged care facility. Everyone should do some form of physical activity, no matter how old they are, no matter how much they weigh, no matter what health problems they may have, or whatever disabilities they may have; everybody needs to move around everyday!
Ideally, the activities should involve a range of activities and include fitness, strength, balance and flexibility. Aerobic walking or dancing for fitness, lifting weights to build up and maintain strength, gentle stretching for flexibility, and exercises designed to help maintain balance such as walking heel to toe, all can be incorporated into a daily program. People should always start out easily and gently, and work up to more movement, as they are able.
Physical activity is very crucial for preventing or managing conditions such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. We are pleased to see the Government develop these sensible recommendations and think everyone should now take their advice and get their 30 minutes a day!