EXERCISE IS MEDICINE: HERE'S THE SCIENCE

Sports medicine is gaining recognition for its benefits in enhancing quality of life for the elderly as many physical therapists do not adequately address inactivity issues in this age group, which increases risks of falls and frailty

- BY JAY HILOTIN | Senior Assistant Editor

They say a dog is man’s best friend — but research shows it’s really physical activity that never lets you down. Exercise keeps hearts beating stronger, bones sturdier, and minds sharper, helping people live longer and lead healthier lives. Evidence has emerged that it offers protection against noncommunicable diseases — cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and even some types of cancer.

Moreover, physical activity is also associated with improved mental health, improved quality of life and wellbeing. Yet, many physical therapists still underplay inactivity, leaving seniors at higher risk of falls, frailty, and faster decline.

A 2025 study led by Wingood and colleagues tested a physical activity pathway designed to give therapists step-by-step tools to assess and boost activity among older patients. Barriers were real — think lack of time, training, and clunky electronic health records. Over 88 per cent of therapists found the pathway not only doable, but helpful, showing that structured guidance can bridge the gap between exercise science and everyday practice.

The science backing exercise in aging? Rock solid. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that regular physical activity in older adults reduces the risk of falls, lowers chronic disease burden, and even slashes mortality rates.

EIM Active Aging initiative