Fitness: How to Keep Working

Poor health seems to be a frequent cause of premature retirement. Active living not only prevents poor health, it also helps to manage and control chronic conditions. As such, it may very well extend the average period of participation in the labour force.

An active lifestyle can prolong independence by helping you maintain adequate strength, flexibility and aerobic power.

Ill heath, during the retirement years is greatly reduced by active living. Exercise has a beneficial influence on such common problems as cardiac and peripheral vascular disease, hypertension, maturity-onset diabetes, certain cancers, osteoporosis, arthritis, memory loss, anxiety and depression.

Exercise leads to a better control of blood pressure, a reduction of postural sway, faster reflexes, and stronger bones. All of these reduce the risk of falls and fall injuries.

Our society values quality of life above extended lifespan. The quality of life that accompanies optimal health and independence is certainly within closer reach for active older adults.

(From the Canadian Fitness Lifestyle Research Institute).

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