Writing an Exercise Prescription for Older Adults

Abstract

Prescribing exercise for older adults is both a science and an art. Three senior-specific principles---functional relevance, challenge, and tailoring or adaptation---should guide the development of an exercise prescription. The exercise prescription for older adults should be multicomponent and include aerobic endurance, muscle strengthening, flexibility, and balance training. Adjustments to the environment, communication techniques, and number of different exercises can safely engage older adults with sensory losses or cognitive impairment in exercise programs.