ESSA launches free Exercise for Older Adults e-book

That's despite the overwhelming evidence that shows that for people aged 65 and over, physical activity can help maintain energy levels, increase joint movement, reduce stress and improve mood and memory function.

According to the peak body for exercise physiologists, Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA), despite these significant benefits the physical activity levels of older Australians are less than the level recommended to gain a health benefit.

"In Australia, 75 per cent of people aged 65 and over are not sufficiently active," said ESSA chief executive Anita Hobson-Powell.

"This is concerning as maintaining a healthy and happy lifestyle is vital as we age. A simple tool that can encourage healthy ageing is movement and exercise, and age should not be seen as a barrier for anyone to participate."

To help encourage older Australians to become more active in a safe way, and educate them on the many benefits of physical activity, ESSA has launched a new eBook called Exercise for Older Adults.

"Exercise provides a wide range of benefits, the main being the management and treatment of chronic conditions, and with older age comes greater incidence of chronic illness and disease," said Ms Hobson-Powell.

In fact, three in five Australians (60 per cent) aged 65 years and over have at least one chronic condition and chronic disease is a leading cause of disability in older adults.

"This eBook has been compiled with the help of accredited exercise physiologists and researchers who are working together to ensure Australians are ageing actively to increase their quality of life and reduce the burden of chronic disease and conditions."

The free Exercise for Older Adults eBook covers a variety of topics including brain health (or dementia), Parkinson's disease, common cancers, heart health (or cardiovascular disease), osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and persistent pain, as well as how to exercise to prevent falls, how exercise can prevent loneliness, and the importance of strength training.

"Offering advice from accredited exercise professionals, as well as helpful tips and inspiring testimonials throughout the chapters, the eBook is a one-stop-shop to help get older adults start to become more active in a safe way."

"No matter your age, it's never too late to start incorporating exercise into your daily life."

It's important to remember that for older people who are starting to re-engage in physical activity after a period of time, or for the first time ever, they should consult with an accredited exercise professional or their GP.