French researchers have shown that in the long term, physical exercise allows older people to age in better conditions.
Scientists are looking every day for the miracle recipe for aging in the best conditions. And sport has been able, through numerous studies, to demonstrate its benefits on the health of seniors. A new French study by doctors from the Gérontopôle of the Toulouse University Hospital, researchers from Inserm and the University of Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier (UMR 1027) once again supports this fact. According to their research, published in the JAMA Internal Medicine last December, prolonged physical exercise significantly improved the quality of life.
Reduced risk of falls
To arrive at these conclusions, the researchers based themselves on 46 already existing international studies and thus gathered the data of more than 22,700 people, aged on average 73 years, “From developed and industrialized countries”. For at least a year, the participants exercised two to three times a week. And it turned out that seniors who exercised saw their risk of falls reduced by 12%, of severe falls with injuries reduced by 26%, and their overall quality of life improved.
In order for physical exercise to be optimal, scientists have nevertheless identified a list of criteria:
- The activity must include balance, muscular strength and aerobic exercises;
- It should be practiced 2 to 3 times a week;
- It should be of moderate intensity;
- Sessions should last an average of 50 minutes;
- It should preferably be supervised by sports professionals, such as a physiotherapist.
The French researchers finally note that the impact of sport on mortality remains neutral, except in the case where the elderly suffer from a heart disease or a cognitive impairment where the benefits are significant, as has been proven by previous studies.
Read also :
Loading widget
Subscribe to the Top Santé Newsletter to receive the latest news for free