For adults who are 65 and older, physical activity can reduce risks of heart disease and stroke.⁵ Regular physical activity can also help you regain some of the strength and stamina you lose naturally as you age, which makes it less likely that you’ll sustain a fall that could cause major damage to your body. Even everyday tasks like walking or gardening can help you maintain healthy muscles, bones and joints and reduce the pain and swelling that often comes with arthritis.¹⁰

How Much Do I Need?

At least 150 minutes a week is still the optimal amount of time that older adults should spend being active. However, seniors may want to start off exercising in short 5–10-minute intervals and should speak to their health care provider before beginning a new physical activity.¹⁰

Special Considerations

• Speak with your health care provider to understand if and how any chronic conditions you have may affect your ability to do regular physical activity safely.
• Be as physically active as your abilities and pre-existing health conditions allow.
• Do a mixture of physical activity that includes balance training as well as aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.⁸

5. CDC (2022). Benefits of Physical Activity
16. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] (1999). Older Adults | Surgeon General Report | Retrieved September 30, 2022