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New Research Highlights the Lifespan and Healthspan Benefits of Exercise
A recent study underscores the importance of physical activity in reducing the risk of chronic diseases, improving functional abilities, and extending lifespan, reinforcing the role of exercise prescriptions as a valuable health intervention.
The review, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal on January 27, highlights how physical activity can prevent or mitigate the risks associated with over 30 chronic conditions. These include coronary artery disease, heart failure, type 2 diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoporosis, depression, dementia, and cancer.
Beyond physical health, exercise plays a crucial role in enhancing social and mental well-being, according to study author Dr. Jane Thornton, associate professor of family medicine and epidemiology at Western University, Ontario, and director of Health, Medicine, and Science at the International Olympic Committee.
“As we say in the article, ‘Age, frailty, or existing functional impairments should not be viewed as an absolute contraindication to physical activity, but rather a key reason to prescribe exercise,’” Thornton stated in an interview with Medscape Medical News.
Key Benefits of Physical Activity
The researchers analyzed data spanning from 2002 to 2024, focusing on meta-analyses and systematic reviews that examine the health benefits of exercise for older adults. The study identified numerous advantages, including:
- Increased Longevity: A 2023 meta-analysis revealed that 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity can reduce all-cause mortality by 31% compared to inactivity.
- Functional Independence: A 2012 meta-analysis found that frail older adults who engaged in physical activity experienced improvements in daily living activities, gait speed, and balance.
- Fall Prevention: A 2016 review demonstrated that exercise interventions reduced falls by 21%, with more frequent and prolonged programs yielding the best outcomes.
- Bone and Joint Health: A 2018 review on osteoarthritis suggested that while excessive activity may pose risks, moderate physical activity can alleviate pain and improve function.
- Cognitive Health: A 2021 study linked higher physical activity levels to a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia progression.
- Mental Health: A 2022 systematic review found that technology-assisted exercise, such as exergaming, contributed to improved mood and reduced depressive symptoms.
- Quality of Life: Studies from 2021 emphasized the benefits of outdoor exercise and aquatic therapy in enhancing mood and reducing anxiety.
“Physical activity is underutilized as a healthcare intervention, despite its potential to add both years to life and quality to those years,” the authors noted.
Implementing Exercise Prescriptions
Dr. Thornton outlined two primary steps clinicians can take to integrate exercise into patient care:
- Tracking Activity Levels: Routine monitoring of a patient’s physical activity signals its importance and can facilitate discussions when levels are suboptimal.
- Incorporating Physical Activity Counseling: Clinicians can prescribe exercise similarly to medication, providing guidelines or referrals to community resources.
For individuals at higher risk due to recent health events or chronic conditions, further assessment and supervised exercise may be necessary. However, most people can begin exercising gradually without professional supervision.
Lucas J. Carr, PhD, director of the Behavioral Medicine Lab at the University of Iowa, emphasized the utility of screening tools such as the Physical Activity Vital Sign questionnaire, which allows clinicians to assess patients’ activity levels efficiently.
Addressing Barriers
Despite the clear benefits, prescribing physical activity is not yet a widespread practice among clinicians. Thornton identified three key barriers: time, training, and trust.
“Time constraints in short clinic visits, lack of training in exercise prescription, and skepticism about patient adherence are common challenges,” she explained.
Carr echoed these concerns, highlighting the lack of reimbursement for physical activity screening and the need for healthcare integration. “Exercise counseling should be a standard component of healthcare, with trained specialists available to support patients,” he stated.
Despite these hurdles, Thornton urged healthcare professionals to prioritize exercise prescription. “Physical activity is effective, cost-efficient, and valued by patients. If you’re not incorporating it into your practice, it’s time to start!”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individuals should consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to their physical activity routine.
