An object in motion will remain in motion, according to Isaac Newton. Like objects, people to will remain in motion unless an outside force is acted upon them. A person only has so much energy to trade for motion, and as they age activity becomes more difficult. However the basic principle remains the same. It is important that people of all ages continue to do as much as they can physically in order to be able to continue physical and mental activity in the near future.
According to a study done by the Rush Memory and Aging Project people who are less active have more brain lesions called white matter hyper-intensities that are associated with certain memory conditions and movement problems. Does the lack of activity cause the lesions, or do the lesions cause the lack of activity?
The studies are still being done to find out. However it should be noted that studies done before this one suggest physical activity likely increases brain health by increasing blood flow, this study indicated that older adults who are more physically active and do have white matter hyper-intensities have fewer motor problems.
No matter the age or level of ability, humans are better off if they can get their blood flowing at a more rapid rate. Even when a person does not feel up to it, they should do the maximum amount of activity that their condition allows. Even a short walk or water aerobics can improve overall health, and increase mobility over the years.
Aging is something that most humans have to navigate, and it is easy to feel like slowing down but it is important to make sure that the slow down is not a complete halt. Keeping up a level of motion will insure that the motion will be able to continue month after month.
There are community activities and programs for socialization available to keep seniors from being too isolated. Taking advantage of programs like the financial assistance pharmacy Michigan, YMCA swim programs, nurse aids, and senior activity centers can make the elderly's life much more comfortable while they make the effort to some physical activity each day.
