Health and Fitness in the Older Adult

Aging is an ongoing process that begins following birth. Both physical and mental changes occur throughout every life stage, becoming even more pronounced in older ages. This process occurs unevenly and in different ways among individuals so that the evidence of aging becomes apparent early in some while others lead an active, healthy life far into what is considered really old age. Researchers are looking at all aspects of aging, both physiological and psychological, to identify those factors considered most important regarding causes of aging but also what we do throughout life that impacts our state of health in old age. In this book, two of the major factors shown to impact the health and overall fitness of older adults are emphasized. Good nutritional habits, along with exercise that is specifically tailored for seniors, are discussed as they are practiced at a leading retirement center. Lifestyle factors are now shown to be as important, possibly even more so than genetics in how a person ages and even the length of life. Hopefully, the information presented may spark further interest on the part of all seniors.