Subsidised exercise classes boost health for older Australians
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A large-scale Australian study has revealed that subsidised exercise classes could significantly improve the health and physical function of older adults.
The research, conducted by Monash University in collaboration with Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA), involved 7,000 participants aged 65 and over.
Dr Christina Ekegren, who led the research, stated, “Despite some of the barriers that older adults face in engaging with exercise programs, there is still significant potential for improvements in strength, mobility and physical activity participation.”
The study found that low-to-moderate intensity exercise classes, run by accredited professionals over a 12-week period, led to measurable improvements in physical function. Participants showed progress in sit-to-stand exercises, timed up-and-go tests, reach tests, and waist measurements.
ESSA president Dr Brendan Joss said that staying physically active was incredibly important for good physical and mental health and to reduce the risk of multiple health conditions.
“We need to strengthen physical activity programs for older adults with scalable, affordable and effective programs that address the health concerns of our ageing population,” Dr Joss said.
The research aligns with the World Health Organization’s recommendation to strengthen physical activity programs for older adults. With up to 60% of seniors worldwide failing to meet current global physical activity guidelines, the need for accessible exercise programs is clear.
Dr Joss advocated for government action, stating, “Subsidised exercise classes delivered by an accredited professional that accommodate for physical limitations and reduce stigma is essential to get more older Australians moving.”
He added that funding subsidies would be an “effective low-cost strategy for improving the health outcomes and quality of life for older Australians that governments can introduce now.”
The study’s findings have been published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, BMC Geriatrics and Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport.
Related: Research links exercise to sharper ageing brains
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
