Exercise and aging: health benefits and characteristics of the intervention programs at LABSAU/IEFD/UERJ

Abstract

Social, political, economic and environmental progress and scientific development in different areas improved overall health and quality of life, therefore increasing life expectancy. In a biological perspective, aging is defined as the degeneration of organic functions and structures, with consequent decline of motor and mental capacities. In this context, regular physical exercise has been considered an important strategy to preserve functional autonomy and to prevent chronic-degenerative diseases. This article aimed at reviewing the literature on the potential benefits of physical exercise to health and quality of life in the elderly, as well as to describe exercise intervention programs for this population developed by the Laboratory of Physical Activity and Health Promotion of the Institute of Physical Education and Sports from the University of Rio de Janeiro State (LABSAU). It can be concluded that systematic exercise can bring about several benefits in both physical and mental health, improving the quality of life in the old age. Through its intervention programs and partnerships, LABSAU has been offering opportunities of engagement of the elderly in physical activity programs of different natures, thus contributing to the development of this area of interest in the state of Rio de Janeiro.