Older Adult Physical Education: Research Implications for Instruction

Abstract

With increasing longevity and numbers of older adults, the need, both economic and humanistic, is present for physical educators to take the leadership in translating research in exercise physiology, motor learning, sociology, and psychology into beneficial physical education programs. Research is still needed in how the elderly learn and maintain motor skills and the effect of participation on motor performance. However, from the research in existence some implications can be drawn for guidance in establishing the instructional delivery system for the movement program. These guidelines include ways to accommodate reduced perceptual abilities, motivation, and physiological functioning to maximize success in physical activity programs.