Exercise in Older Adults: A Comprehensive Review of Benefits, Types, and Clinical Recommendations

Mehmet Onur SAVAS; Murat Ali CINAR

doi:10.5281/zenodo.20974468

Authors

Mehmet Onur SAVAS Hasan Kalyoncu Üniversitesi
Murat Ali CINAR Hasan Kalyoncu University, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Gaziantep, TÜRKİYE

10.5281/zenodo.20974468

Abstract

The global population is aging at an unprecedented rate, making the health and functional capacity of older adults a critical public health concern. Physical inactivity is one of the most modifiable risk factors associated with chronic disease, disability, and premature mortality in this population. This review synthesizes current evidence on the effects of various exercise modalities—including aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility training—on the physiological, psychological, and functional outcomes of adults aged 65 years and older. Evidence consistently demonstrates that structured exercise programs reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia while improving cognitive function, mental health, and quality of life. Resistance training is particularly effective in attenuating age-related muscle mass loss and improving functional independence, whereas balance and multicomponent training substantially reduces fall risk. Psychological benefits, including reductions in depression and anxiety and improvements in self-efficacy, are also well documented. Despite these established benefits, adherence to physical activity guidelines remains low among older adults due to barriers such as comorbidity, pain, and lack of social support. This review also discusses special considerations for frail and very old individuals, and provides evidence-based clinical recommendations for exercise prescription in geriatric populations. Future research should focus on optimal exercise dose-response relationships and the development of scalable, individualized intervention strategies.

Keywords:

Older adults Exercise Physical activity Aging Sarcopenia Fall prevention Cognitive function Quality of life

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Exercise in Older Adults: A Comprehensive Review of Benefits, Types, and Clinical Recommendations

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