Supercare4u.com transports a wide section of our elderly population and we see all variations of mobility with them. The latest report to come out of the MOH says that Elderly Kiwis should exercise more if they want to live longer and ensure they are not a burden on the already stretched public health system.
What a statement to make! Most to the elderly I know would love to do more exercise. It's just the bones and joints don't work like they used to......
New guidelines on physical activity for older people recommend pensioners do aerobic activity five times a week for at least 30 minutes, such as aqua jogging, housework ,gardening,etc.
On top of this, they should aim to do three sessions of flexibility and balance activities, and two sessions of muscle-strengthening activities a week. These could include modified tai chi, petanque, yoga and bowls. Physical activity has many health benefits for people in their golden years, including preventing depression, certain cancers, and premature death from falls, stroke, heart disease, and obesity, the guidelines say.
A recent survey by the ministry showed 55 per cent of men aged between 65 and 74 regularly exercised and just 47 per cent of women. But once they passed their 75th birthdays, exercise rates dropped dramatically.
Maori were the most active, but did not perform as well in overall health. Asian people were the least active, followed by Pacific Islanders.
It is estimated that, by 2061, older people will make up a quarter of New Zealand's population.
