Cardiovascular exercise shows positive impact on seniors with diabetes
With heart health being the most talked about topic due to the recent 2009 Canadian Cardiovascular Congress being held in Edmonton, one of the most interesting papers that were submitted was related to the heart health of seniors. Dr. Kenneth Madden, a geriatrician at the University of British Columbia was motivated to conduct this study because he felt that most researchers abandon all hope of betterment for heart patients over 65 years of age.
Madden decided to study seniors in the age group of 65 to 83 who suffered from Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. These adults were divided into 2 groups. While the control group continued life as before and did no exercise whatsoever, the seniors in the test group were made to use a treadmill or a stationery cycle for an hour, three times a week. The measure of better heart health that was monitored was the stiffness in the arteries, something that is inevitable with age and is considered a risk factor for strokes and heart attacks.
Study results showed a 20% improvement in the stiffness of the arteries among the test group, an improvement that is considered significant in just three months. The results took many people by surprise because it was believed that the damage done to the arteries was irreversible at such a late stage. Most also believed that it was impossible for seniors to change their sedentary lifestyles. This was proved true when Madden had issues recruiting seniors for the study. He also agreed that it was a struggle to convince people above 65 years of age to get involved in some kind of an exercise program and many health care providers also felt that aerobic exercise would be too much to ask when it came to seniors.
At this stage in the research it cannot be conclusively stated that aerobic exercise can result in a reduction in medication, even though there were anecdotes that claimed a significant cut backs on medication. Many also claimed to experience better overall health and wellness.
There are already some institutions and gyms that work with seniors to provide them guidance on exercise programs for seniors. The gym at Eau Claire YMCA in Calgary already has seniors-specific exercise programs. Lindsay Walker, the strength and conditioning director states that it is never too late and that anyone can start with simple walking before building up.
It is advised that seniors who want to start exercising should consult their physicians before they enrol. It is also recommended that seniors should train with a personal trainer who has had some experience in working with seniors so that the sessions can be conducted under proper guidance.