Abstract

This overview on the integration of exercise into the life-style of the healthy elderly summarizes data on the effects of physical activity on both coronary risk factors and age-induced changes in both cardiac and noncardiac organ systems. It appears that many of the diseases associated with age as well as aging itself can be either treated or blunted by an active life-style. Cardiac, pulmonary, musculoskeletal and metabolic-endocrine changes associated with age and/or disease can show a change in progression as a result of physical activity. This overview sets the tone for the symposium, which covers in depth many of the specific areas affecting the quality of life of the elderly. The exercise prescription is described in this paper and expanded upon in subsequent papers of this symposium, and it is on the basis of these recommendations that many of the age-related changes and risk factors may be forestalled or rectified.