Worried your parents aren't getting enough exercise? You aren't alone. Global trends reveal millennials are more worried about their parents activities than their own. A recent research reveals that strong relationships can help adults stay active in old age. Published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, the study suggests that older adults were significantly more likely to engage in regular physical activity with a life partner or a network of close friends.
Conducted by scientists at the University of Hawaii, the study originally intended to look into how individual, interpersonal, organisational, and community factors encourage older adults to meet physical activity guidelines. After examining 1,193 adults between the ages 65-74 in Albania, Brazil, and Colombia, the researchers said, “Older adults who experience social isolation are at greater risk of depression, cognitive decline, and other poor health outcomes.”
It was found that the female participants, as well as all participants with depression, were less likely to engage in regular physical activity. Since the constraints of social distancing has reduced their physical activity, it is important for a little nudge, and protect their physical and mental health.
The ongoing pandemic has posed some real mental health challenges and while you can't escape the situation, some light exercise such as walking is generally considered safe and acceptable among the elderly. The research revealed that relationships are key to influencing positive health behaviours, including physical activity. It stated, “We must find innovative ways to maintain connectedness and physical activity, while also following public health guidelines.”
Check-in with your folks regularly and find out creative ways to make exercise feel like a family or community event. Also important, is to make sure the fitness journey expands beyond the pandemic.
