A suitable exercise protocol for the elderly

Physical inactivity and sedentary time are associated with all-cause mortality, chronic non-communicable diseasesand falls in the elderly. Objective of this review is to assess and summarize recommendations from clinicalguidelines for physical activity (PA) of older adults in general and related to falls. A scoping review of the existingclinical guidelines was conducted. The included studies should have been developed under the auspices of a healthorganization and their methodology should be described in detail. Nine clinical guidelines providing specificrecommendations for the elderly were identified. There was a strong agreement across the guidelines regardinggoals, activities parameters, adverse effects of PA, in addition to reference for preventing falls. Keeping even theminimum of physical activity, introducing balance exercises and strengthening exercises for preventing falls,avoiding unexpected accelerations in the intensity of the activities, applying the necessary precautions andconsulting a health professional are the main pillars of recommendations. Despite any deficiencies in definitions,monitoring and optimal dosage consistency of recommendations, is an ideal incentive for countries andorganizations to adopt and enhance physical activity as an antidote to the degeneration of human’s health andquality of life.

Keywords:

Clinical guidelines , Older adults , Physical activity