Good reasons for older women to get active
The Office for Women has released a report called Physical activity and health in mid-age and olderAustralian women.
It is a long-term study looking at how much exercise women do and what impact this has on their health.
Australian guidelines recommend 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days of the week for health benefits.
The report suggests that mid-age and older women gain few additional health benefits from vigorous physical activity over and above those achieved from walking or moderate intensity physical activity.
For older women, vigorous physical activity may increase risk of fractures.
Memory complaints were slightly less likely among older women who reported an hour a day or more of moderate intensity physical activity.
The report provides details on many aspects including the link between physical activity and mental health, memory, falls, arthritis and health costs. To read the report visit www.ofw.facsia.gov.au
