Sedentary and Stressed

Why are Americans—especially seniors—exercising less than they used to? 

Americans are exercising less than they were last year, says a Gallup poll examining U.S. health habits, with older individuals more likely to report that they work out less than they used to than other age groups. Less than half (48.4 percent) of seniors, those aged 65 and older, reported exercising for at least 30 minutes three or more days per week. Seniors are among the least likely to say they exercise frequently across all demographic groups, and they report the largest decrease in exercise levels since 2008. 

Why are workouts waning, and why for seniors in particular? As with many health issues plaguing Americans—such as poor eating habits—the economy may be at least partly to blame, says Kathi Casey, ERYT, CPI, author of Stop Back Pain – Kiss Your Back, Neck and Sciatic Nerve Pain Goodbye!

“If seniors are exercising less, it could be related to the state of our economy as they would be among the hardest hit,” she explains. “Retirements funds do not go as far as they used to. When you can’t afford the membership fee at your country club, it’s more difficult to get out and golf—a favorite, yet rather costly sport among seniors.”

At the start of the economic downturn, Casey adds, many people did abandon their workout routines and engage in unhealthy eating habits—most likely due to stress—but perhaps this is changing, at least for some demographics.

“The people I see in the 45 to 65 age range are exercising more,” she observes.

No matter what one’s age or financial situation, it is important that exercise and healthy eating remain priorities, Casey contends, because stress will worsen mental and physical problems.

“Stress can cause many health problems and when financial worries also cause people to stop going to the gym, or playing golf or tennis, then the problems are exacerbated,” Casey says.

“As human beings, our bodies are designed to work well for a long time if we feed them proper nutrition and exercise,” she adds.

Noting that heart disease is the top killer of American men and women today, Casey cites stress as a main factor in this health crisis. “Too much stress and not enough exercise are invitations to heart disease,” she adds.

What can people—especially seniors—do to incorporate more exercise in their lives?

While the winter months may prohibit many from enjoying outdoor activities, the spring and summer mean more runners, walkers, and cyclists, Casey says, compensating for the inactivity of the cold season.

Low-cost activities like hiking, walking and swimming may be good options, but the key, Casey says, to encourage people to work out is to find something they love.

“If you don’t like swimming or hiking, it’s not going to be fun and you are less likely to get out and do it,” she says.

Unfortunately, for many, finances are still an issue. “It would be good if country clubs would offer bigger discounts to seniors,” Casey maintains.

Also, because dancing is another great option, she encourages organizations catering to seniors to offer evening dances along with popular activities like bingo.

“Most senior women like to dance!” she concludes. “Dancing is great exercise and tons of fun!”