A review of  research on senior athletes (ages 65 and up) entitled The Effects of Fitness on the Aging Process appears in the September issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. A review of  research on senior athletes (ages 65 and up) entitled The Effects of Fitness on the Aging Process appears in the September issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Lead researcher, orthopedic surgeon B. Vopat, MD states, “A lot of the deterioration we see with aging can be attributed to a more sedentary lifestyle instead of aging itself. An increasing amount of evidence demonstrates that we can modulate age-related decline in the musculoskeletal system.” Exercise clearly improves measurements of bone density, ligament and tendon function, and overall muscle vs. fat mass. These improvements all ad up to less tendency to sprains and fractures, and less of the disability associated with aging.  The  recommendation  made by these Orthopedic specialists is for a combined physical activity regimen for all adults, (as is safe and allowable) which includes resistance exercises and strength training,  flexibility and balance training, and aerobic endurance exercises. Of course it is important to note that aerobic endurance training promotes a healthy heart and cardiovascular system in addition to the  musculoskeletal benefits that this report focuses on.  The overall message for all is EXERCISE !  It may keep you young.

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