Proving the Need for a Physical Activity Program
Substantial scientific evidence shows that regular physical activity reduces the risk of premature death, as well as the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, colon cancer, and diabetes.
People age 50 and older who are inactive face escalating health consequences. Yet four out of 10 Americans between the ages of 45 and 64 are sedentary, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This number increases to six out of 10 for those 75 and older. Working together, we can change that!
Here are some more statistics to support your physical activity initiative:
- Approximately 34 percent of the 50+ population is sedentary.
- A study of more than 11,000 Harvard alumni found that those who engaged in moderate physical activity - the equivalent of walking briskly for 30 minutes a day, five days a week - reduced their risk of stroke by 24 percent. (Lee and Paffenbarger, 1998)
- Poor physical activity is a better predictor of death than smoking, hypertension, and heart disease. (New England Journal of Medicine, March 2002)
- About 300,000 people in the U.S. die each year from diseases related to physical inactivity.
- Although Americans realize the connection between physical activity and longevity, they are not any more physically active now than they were 10 years ago. (New England Journal of Medicine, March 2002)
- Rates of adult obesity and adult-onset diabetes are increasing in the U.S. Inactivity worsens both conditions; physical activity improves them.
- In 2000, the total cost of obesity for all ages was estimated to be $117 billion (CDC: Physical Activity and Good Nutrition: Essential Elements to Prevent Chronic Diseases and Obesity 2004).
- Obesity increases disability. A study by the Rand Corporation shows a dramatic increase in the percentage of adults aged 50-69 with Activities of Daily Living limitations related to obesity. There is a need to reduce possible conditions of disease and disability so that people 50+ can remain healthy and active for as long as possible.
- In 2000 there were 35 million people aged 65+. In 2050, it is projected there will be 87 million people aged 65+ (U.S. Census Bureau 2004 Projections).
- Nearly three quarters of the respondents in an AARP national survey said they were interested in learning how to exercise safely; 71 percent said they want help staying motivated; and 66 percent said they are interested in learning how to set realistic goals. (AARP, 2002).
Increase the number of people age 50 and older that you serve by using AARP's "Physical Activities Workbook." This workbook shows readers how to add physical activity to their daily routine without disrupting their schedule or lifestyle. They'll learn how to get motivated, start safely, set goals that meet their health and fitness needs, develop a support network, and tackle roadblocks. First copy free. Extra copies $1 each. Mail checks payable to AARP, along with a written request that includes publication title and stock number D561 to: AARP, P.O. Box 93119, Long Beach, CA 90809-3119.
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