Exercise is a prime example of a behavior that has been proven to improve function and quality of life as we grow older. Even in the very old, simple exercises can maintain and even restore strength and stamina, flexibility, and balance. To encourage people to start an exercise habit and stick with it, the NIA, with Senator John Glenn, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and other Federal agency partners, launched a national education campaign on exercise for keeping fit after 50. Lifestyle changes can also be effective in reducing the risk of major disease. While blood pressure medications can substantially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death and major cause of disability in the elderly, they can also cause adverse drug interactions and other side effects.
Medications can also be very costly.
People who participated in the trial had previously been successful in controlling their blood pressure with a single antihypertensive medication. During the study, medication use was gradually withdrawn under medical supervision as the lifestyle changes were implemented. At the end of the trial, about one-third of the participants on either salt reduction or weight loss programs were able to maintain normal blood pressure without medication. The TONE thus concluded that modest reduction in sodium intake and weight loss could provide a feasible, effective, and safe nonpharmacologic therapy for hypertension in a significant number of older persons who otherwise would be prescribed medications. TONE has important implications for physicians and public health professionals because it shows that older people with high blood pressure are able to make and sustain lifestyle changes.