Chapter 18 physical activity and exercise

Question 1

Physical Activity and Aging

Answer 1

Regular physical activity throughout life is essential for healthy aging

Enhances health and functional status while decreasing the number of chronic illnesses and functional limitations

A protective factor for depression

Only 16% of older adults exercise regularly

Physical inactivity is identified as a leading risk factor for global mortality (hypertension, smoking, high blood glucose level, physical inactivity, obesity)

Even a small amount of physical activity, at least 30 minutes of moderate activity several days a week, can improve health

Question 2

Assessment

Answer 2

Assessment of function and mobility are components of a health assessment for older adults

Exercise counseling should be provided as part of the assessment

Frail individuals will need more comprehensive assessment to adapt exercise recommendations to their abilities to ensure benefit without compromising safety

Question 3

Screening/interventions

Answer 3

CDC “Growing Stronger” program

Older adults are less likely to receive exercise counseling from their primary care providers than younger individuals

Nurses can design and lead exercise and physical activity programs for groups of older adults in the community or in long-term care

Question 4

Incorporating Physical Activity into Lifestyle

Answer 4

Doesn’t require expensive equipment

Benefits of group exercise in terms of social and emotional health have been reported

Muscle strengthening exercises without weight bearing provide joint stability

Swimming is a low-risk activity that provides aerobic benefit, and water-based exercises are particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis or other mobility limitations

Question 5

Special Considerations

Answer 5

The benefits of physical activity extend to the more physically frail older adult, those who are nonambulatory, experience cognitive impairment, and those residing in assisted living facilities or skilled nursing facilities

Research suggests that older adults with cognitive impairment who participate in exercise programs may improve strength and endurance, cognitive function, and ability to perform activities of daily living

Question 6

Maintaining Function in Acute Care Settings

Answer 6

There is a growing awareness of the need to focus on hospitalized older adults

Hospitalization is associated with significantly greater loss of total, lean, and fat mass strength in older persons

A baseline assessment of functional ability is important and can assist in setting appropriate goals for hospitalized individuals

*The plan of care should include interventions to maintain or improve function for all acutely ill older adults

Question 7

How much time should be devoted to moderate activity in order to improve health?
A. 30 minutes three times a week
B. 60 minutes  daily
C. 45 minutes two times a week
D. 30 minutes daily 5 times a week

Answer 7

D. 30 minutes daily 5 times a week

Question 8

In order to effectively incorporate physical activity into lifestyle, a person:
A. doesn’t need expensive gym equipment.
B. incorporates muscle strengthening exercises without weight bearing.
C. considers group exercise for its social and emotional health benefits.
D. all of the above.

Answer 8

D. all of the above.