If anything is the fountain of youth, it is exercise. An active sixty year old may be in better physical condition than a sedentary twenty year old. Many of the physical changes we associate with aging--weight gain, loss of strength and flexibility, and reduced mobility -- can actually be prevented through regular physical activity. In addition, exercise reduces the risk of diseases common to the elderly, such as heart disease, stroke, many cancers, osteoporosis and diabetes. Exercise protects against anxiety and depression. It may also help older people to stay mentally alert and active.

Starting an exercise program

Even elders who have never been physically active can benefit from regular exercise. Older people can increase their strength and fitness, sometimes remarkably, although their level of fitness will not be as high as that of a younger person who is active. It is recommended that elders wanting to take part in a exercise program contact their doctors for a complete medical exam. This is especially important for people who smoke, who have a family history of heart disease, or who have had any warning signs of heart disease.