Ther Ex Unit 2 - Exercise for Older Adults

started on Updated Hierarchy of Functional Aging slide

elite

top performer (<1%) in most/all physical domains (sports competition, high-risk and power sports, performance-focused exercisers)

physically fit

well-above average performer in most/all domains (moderate to heavy physical work, endurance sports and games, regular exercises)

semi-fit

well-above average in one particular domain (eg. CV) but lower in other domains

higher independent

average to above average in most domains (light to moderate physical work, low physical demand activities, can pass all IADL’s, may be low-intensity exercisers)

lower independent

average to below average in most domains (very light physical work, mostly inactive, non-exerciser)

pre-frail

meets 1-2 of the frailty criteria, high risk of frailty, cannot pass all IADL’s

frail

meets frailty criteria (can pass all BADL’s but may need help with IADL’s)

dependent

cannot pass some or all IADL’s or BADL’s (walking, bathing, dressing, eating, transferring), needs home or institutional care

Domains of physical function

Cognitive/emotional, neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory, balance, mobility

what increases with aging

subcutaneous fat and intramuscular fat

what decreases with age

• muscle mass, strength, and power

• bone density

• collagen

• cartilage and joint lubrication

How does decreased collagen affect joints?

• increases stiffness

• reduces flexibility

• reduces mobility

• reduces shock absorption

why is there a loss of muscle mass, strength, and power with aging.

Type II fiber loss

What does decreased bone density lead to?

• osteoporosis

• increased fracture risk

what causes decreased cartilage and joint lubrication?

• osteoarthritis

• degenerative joint disease

• joint replacements