Mixed
Moderate to high levels of physical activity reduce the risk of functional limitations and disability in older adults (aged 65-85) by approximately 50% compared to sedentary levels.
To maintain independence as you age, aim for at least moderate physical activity. This means activities like brisk walking or gardening for 30 minutes, 3-5 days a week, or engaging in more vigorous exercises. Simply doing light daily tasks is likely insufficient to significantly lower your risk of becoming functionally limited.
For functional independence, moderate (and high) levels of physical activity appeared effective in conferring a reduced risk (odds ratio ~0.5) of functional limitations or disability.
Why this rating
Based on 66 prospective cohort studies and exercise interventions, though heterogeneity in activity categorization prevented a single pooled meta-analysis.
Source
Physical activity and functional limitations in older adults: a systematic review related to Canada's Physical Activity Guidelines
Donald H. Paterson et al. · International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity · 2010
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