As life expectancy continues to increase, so does the need to
understand the factors that increase health and vitality.
"Physiology of Exercise and Healthy Aging" applies the science of
exercise physiology to an analysis of the aging process and
identifies the positive effects that regular exercise and physical
activity have not only on longevity but also on delaying specific
diseases, decreasing morbidity, and increasing quality of life. It
presents theories on aging, the aging process, the structural and
functional changes that characterize advancing age, exercise
programming concerns for the aged, drug use and abuse by seniors,
and the benefits of exercise and physical activity.
This text offers a more expansive discussion of the particulars
of exercise physiology of aging persons than is found in other
texts on the subject. With "Physiology of Exercise and Healthy
Aging," readers will gain a thorough understanding of the role of
physical activity on the aging process, the principles of exercise
and assessment considerations for elderly adults, and training for
special needs of older adults. Information is presented in the
context of three groups found in the aging and health spectrum:
average aging individuals, frail elderly, and master athletes. This
information is organized within a three-part structure:
-Part I explores age-related changes in the major physiological
systems. The effects of physical activity on these systems, as well
as necessary adaptations for those with impaired abilities in each
system, are also discussed.
-Part II deals with the interactive roles of nutrition;
age-related diseases, such as diabetes and osteoporosis; and
physical activity.
-Part III presents the physiologic adaptability that may be
expected with training and physical activity of older adults. It
also addresses the practical issues that must be considered when
working with this population, including training for aerobic,
anerobic, and muscular fitness; exercise adherence and safety
measures; and potential substance abuse of commonly used
medications.In addition to the presentation of foundational
concepts of physiology as they relate to the process of aging,
chapters of" Physiology of Exercise and Healthy Aging" contain
exercise regimens related to the chapter topic, other forms of
physical activity that have proven beneficial to the aging
population, and contraindicated exercises. Physiological responses
to acute and chronic exercise perturbations are examined, including
studies of cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle metabolism and
strength, neurophysiology and the senses, and the effects of
exercise on older adults with the diseases of aging, including type
2 diabetes, osteoporosis, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease.
Chapter-opening quotes provide the insights of selected thinkers,
scientists, and fitness professionals on the topic discussed.
Practitioners who work with older adults will find programming
recommendations in each chapter to help translate the science into
practice. An appendix offers easy access to forms and assessments,
including a Three-Day Nutritional Assessment form and a Client
History form. The language used throughout the text embraces the
science of exercise physiology but also welcomes practitioners to
apply the information presented.
For student readers, "Physiology of Exercise and Healthy Aging"
incorporates these helpful features to assist learning and
retention:
-Chapter-opening outlines offer quick reference to topics.
-Chapter-ending Questions to Consider provide tools for
self-study and reflection.
-Numerous tables and figures reinforce chapter concepts and add
visual or statistical information related to the process of aging,
fall prevention, international demographics, and theories of
aging.
-References provide additional opportunities for reading and
research with selected books, articles, and Web sites.
-Appendixes contain information on specific Web sites and
numerous tests and forms that may be photocopied for use with
clients or patients or for course projects."Physiology of Exercise
and Healthy Aging "contains a thorough discussion of the unique
effects of aging on the human body and illustrates the power of
exercise as a preventive tool to reduce or offset the deleterious
effects of aging in order to increase the quality of life enjoyed
by our aging population. With this text, both students and
professionals will grasp the advantages of appropriate physical
activity for the elderly and how to safely administer exercise
programs that contribute to the increased health and quality of
life for older adults.