A survey by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has highlighted the importance of physical exercise in the prevention of chronic conditions among people over the age of 65.

The report states that physical activity even at a moderate level, will considerably improve the quality of life and increase life expectancy among older adults.

In a statement based on its own research, ACSM said that although no amount of physical activity can stop the biological aging process, there is evidence that regular exercise can minimize the physiological effects of a sedentary lifestyle and increase active life expectancy by limiting the development and progression of chronic disease and disabling conditions.

It also recommends that exercise programmes for the elderly should include a combination of aerobic, strengthening, and flexibility exercises.