What are the benefits of walking exercise for the elderly

What are the benefits of walking exercise for the elderly

1. Improve cardiovascular health

A 2013 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine showed that walking reduces the risk of cardiovascular events by 31% and all-cause mortality by 32% in people over 60.

2. Enhance cognitive function

A 2011 study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that walking for 40 minutes, three times a week, increased the size of the hippocampus, which is associated with memory and learning, by 2% in older adults and may reduce age-related cognitive decline.

3. Reduce the risk of falls

Walking, combined with other balance and strength exercises, can reduce the risk of falls by 23 percent in older adults.

4. Increase muscle strength and flexibility

Regular walking helps maintain and improve lower body strength and flexibility, which is essential for maintaining independence and mobility. Older adults who walk regularly have better leg strength, balance and flexibility than those who don't walk.

5. Regulate your mental health

Exercise makes people happy and has obvious benefits in regulating mental health.

6. Maintain a healthy weight

Regular walking can help older adults maintain a healthy weight or lose excess weight, thereby reducing the risk of obesity-related health problems. Studies have shown that for older people, brisk walking is more effective at weight control than high-intensity activity.

7. Increase social interaction to reduce loneliness

Walking in groups or with friends and family can promote social connections and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation in older adults. A 2011 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that group walking programs had significant positive effects on participants' well-being and social functioning.