Call for subsidised exercise for older Australians
Physical activity can prevent, treat, and manage chronic conditions.
Affordable community-based fitness classes would encourage older Australians with a chronic disease to exercise more, new research has found.
For the Monash University study, almost 7,000 people aged 65-plus performed low-to-moderate intensity exercises over a three-month period. The classes were run by Exercise and Sports Science Australia and supervised by accredited exercise physiologists.
Held across the country, the disease-specific exercise classes included pilates, aqua aerobics, and yoga. They were delivered through ESSA’s Exercise Right for Active Ageing program. Funded by a $1.838-million Move It AUS – Better Ageing grant from the Australian Sports Commission, each class cost participants just $8.
“The research found subsidised 12-week exercise classes of low-to-moderate intensity, run by accredited exercise professionals, led to significant improvements in physical function, physical activity and quality of life,” lead researcher Dr Christina Ekegren told Australian Ageing Agenda.
Evaluation of ESSA’s program found exercise tailored to specific health concerns had the highest rates of attendance. Many participants had high levels of comorbidity.
“Reaching every state and territory, the research has highlighted to policy makers that class subsidies can boost exercise engagement in this extremely underserved group and improve their health outcomes,” Dr Ekegren said.
Researchers found program participants became more physically active by one extra day a week and reduced sitting time by 30 minutes.
“The results of this important study suggest that participation in the program boosted overall physical activity levels and resulted in additional physical activity beyond the time spent in classes,” ESSA president Dr Brendan Joss told AAA.
Dr Joss said the Monash study also showed the value of accredited physiologists in the delivery of exercise programs. “Accredited exercise physiologists are the most qualified allied health professionals who can deliver safe and effective exercise programs for older Australians.”
Off the back of the Monash findings, Dr Joss is calling on governments to fund subsidies for exercise classes so as to improve health outcomes and quality of life for older Australians living with chronic conditions.
“To get more older Australians moving, subsidised exercise classes delivered by an accredited professional that can accommodate for physical limitations and reduce stigma are essential,” he said.
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