Though billions of dollars are spent each year researching new medications to treat disease in the elderly, sometimes the most effective remedy is exercise. Exercise at any age is important, but for the elderly there can be significant benefits. Studies have shown that regular exercise can help older adults improve bone density as well as reduce the number of falls, arthritic pain, blood pressure, and the risk of heart disease.
Exercise can also help improve memory and reduce symptoms of depression.
She's a good example of an older person who's staying healthy by exercising. Dr. Jordan Metzl joins us in the studio to talk about the importance of exercise and the elderly. A lot of people don't think of exercising when they're older. When we think of athletes, we think of kids, college athletes, or professional athletes. But of any group, the health benefits of exercise are most pronounced in the elderly.