Activity, physical and psychological mobility in old age

Old age and aging are accompanied by a number of physical and mental changes. However, these so-called age-dependent processes are not exclusively genetically determined or irreversible but can be partially delayed, prevented, or compensated and some can even be reversed. The goal of this article is...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Bundesgesundheitsblatt, Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz, 2006-06, Vol.49 (6), p.558-566
Main Authors: Voelcker-Rehage, C, Godde, B, Staudinger, U M
Format: Article
Language:ger
Subjects:
Adaptation, Physiological - physiology
Adaptation, Psychological - physiology
Aged - physiology
Aged - psychology
Aged, 80 and over - physiology
Aged, 80 and over - psychology
Aging - physiology
Aging - psychology
Cognition - physiology
Humans
Life Style
Motor Activity
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Summary:Old age and aging are accompanied by a number of physical and mental changes. However, these so-called age-dependent processes are not exclusively genetically determined or irreversible but can be partially delayed, prevented, or compensated and some can even be reversed. The goal of this article is to highlight the plasticity, or the "mobility", of physical and mental aging. We will point out in what respects an appropriate lifestyle or purposeful interventions can positively influence the reserve capacity of aging human beings and the aging process. Using the example of physical activity, we will illustrate how we can influence physiological development, cognitive performance, longevity, as well as the development and the occurrence of chronic diseases. Additionally, it is shown that cognitive development is malleable as well. It is facilitated or debilitated by behavior and activity-this covers not only cognitive but also physical activity. It is our particular concern to demonstrate the close interconnectedness of body and mind.
ISSN:1436-9990