Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Quality of Life in Older Adults: Summary

Extract

WE live in an aging society. Not only is 1 in every 8 Americans older than 65 years, but a person aged 65 can expect to live an average of 18 more years ⁽¹⁾. People aged 85 years and over are the fastest-growing group, and the proportion of these “oldest old” is expected to triple between now and year 2030 ⁽²⁾. Continued good health of the elderly population is a major challenge to public health ⁽³⁾.

Increased longevity is associated with an increase in multiple chronic conditions that sometimes translate into functional disability and need for assistance ⁽²⁾. The extra years can be marked by declining health, reduced mobility, depression, isolation, and loneliness ⁽⁴⁾. Health and functioning of older adults are influenced by many factors other than biological senescence. Demographic, social, and environmental factors, including physical activity and dietary habits, play a major role. Fortunately, many of these societal factors are amenable to public health interventions and programs ⁽⁵⁾. More than any other age group, older adults are seeking health information and are willing to make behavioral changes to maintain their health and independence into advanced old age ⁽¹⁾. Among the most important self-care behaviors are those that involve physical activity and diet. Their contribution to health and quality of life is the principal topic of this review.