Humans are hunters and gatherers at heart. Our bodies have evolved to move rather than sit for extended periods of time. As we get older, our muscles, tendons and ligaments get a bit stiffer. More movement helps to keep them pliable. Unfortunately, as we age, we tend to be less active - so we exacerbate this sense of stiffness.
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Normal age-related changes in our joints can be associated with small amounts of swelling - this makes them feel stiff. To reduce this, we need to move more, and more often. Walking to the shops rather than driving, joining a walking, dance, tai chi group or a gym class can be fun and will help.
Keeping mobile in older age is essentials as it allows us to do the things that give purpose and meaning in life. Being mobile to maintain social connections with friends and relatives is one of the key factors that keep us healthy in older age. Being mobile to do tasks like shopping, going to the movies, volunteering or out for a coffee keeps us connected to the wider community which is important for us to feel like a valuable member of society.
The benefits of moving more also include improved brain function and mental health. A more active lifestyle through daily exercise or even simple chores around the house can help maintain memory and thinking skills, and potentially stave off dementia. Movement can also impact your mood, relieve stress, alleviate depression, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep.
The body and mind are intimately connected, and the aches and pains we experience as we age can understandably be frustrating and get us down. However, you're never too old to get started, and the benefits of physical activity on mood can be just as great at 75 as they were at 25.
It is vital in older age to be as mobile as possible to keep our muscles, tendons and joints working, as keeping mobile has many physiological, social and cognitive benefits. Of course, if you have severe pain following sitting, please consult your family doctor or physiotherapist.
Response: Angie Fearon, Stephen Isbel and Nathan D'Cunha, University of Canberra
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