Talk with your doctor about starting a physical fitness program. The doctor will assess your physical state, including any particular risks or limitations. The advice the doctor provides will help you begin a fitness program that is adapted to your current situation, with a view to improving it gradually, over time.
Mostly, the doctor’s advice will help make sure you don’t embark on physical exercises that will cause you to abandon it after a brief time, because of injury or pain.
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Most Baby Boomers don’t have health problems that would prevent them from doing moderate activity or the types of exercises described in this guide. In fact, there’s a way for almost every older adult to exercise safely and get meaningful health benefits.
You also should talk with your doctor if you have any of the health problems mentioned below. Doctors rarely tell people not to exercise, but they may have certain safety tips for those who have recently had hip or back surgery, those with uncontrolled health problems, or those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis.
Your activity level is an important topic to discuss with your doctor as part of your ongoing preventive health care. Talk about exercise at least once a year if your health is stable, and more often if your health is getting better or worse over time so that you can adjust your exercise program. Your doctor can help you choose activities that are best for you and reduce any risks. Depending on your age and stage, here are a few things you may want to discuss:
- Ask whether there are exercises or activities you should avoid. An illness or surgery may affect how you exercise. For example, if you’ve had hip or back surgery, you may need to modify or avoid some exercises, or if you develop blood clots in your legs, you will have to restrict your activity for a time. Your doctor can tell you how to increase your physical activity gradually as you recover.
- Talk about any unexplained symptoms, such as chest pain or pressure, pain in your joints, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Postpone exercise until the problem is diagnosed and treated.
- Make sure your preventive care is up to date. For example, women age 65 and older should have regular tests for osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises — such as walking and lifting weights — are especially helpful for those with osteoporosis.
- Understand how any ongoing health conditions affect exercise and physical activity. For example, people with arthritis may need to avoid some types of activity, especially when joints are swollen or inflamed. Those with diabetes may need to adjust their daily schedule, meal plan, or medications when planning their activities.
- Talk to your doctor if you think you might have an uncontrolled medical condition that might affect the type of exercise you should be doing. For example, it is important to know how to exercise safely if your blood pressure or diabetes is not under control.
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