Older Adults Not Doing Enough Strength Exercise

A study from the American College of Sports Medicine, reported in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, July 20, 2006 finds that only 20 percent of adults engage in strength exercise programs and that adults over the age of 65 were the group least likely to participate in these recommended exercises.

Strength training can help reduce loss of muscle, functional decline and help prevent falls. Strength training can help older adults maintain independence in activities of daily living and reduce dependence on others for their care.

Strength exercises include weight lifting and calisthenics that focus on different muscle groups.