Understanding Physical Fitness in Older Populations

Abstract

Move for Health’ By Who’ S World Health Initiative Stated That • Low levels of physical activity are associated with an increased risk of mortality in people over the age of 65 years. • Low levels of physical activity are associated with an increased risk of developing chronic health conditions in people over the age of 65 years. • Each year at least 1.9 million people die as a result of physical inactivity. • At least 30 minutes of regular, moderate-intensity physical activity on 5 days per week reduces the risk of several non-communicable diseases [NCDs]. • Physical inactivity is an independent modifiable risk factor for common NCDs. • More than 35 million people died of NCDs in 2005 - this represented 60% of all deaths worldwide. • 80% of deaths from NCDs occur in low- and middle-income countries. • Without action to address the causes, deaths from NCDs will increase by 17% between 2005 and 2015