Study Shows Active Older Adults Have Better Physical and Mental Health

A study published in Cancer shows that older adults as well as older cancer survivors who engage in more physical activity and sit less have better physical and mental health, reports ScienceDaily . Investigators examined self-reported aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activities, sitting time, and mental and physical health among almost 78,000 participants, which included older cancer survivors up to 10 years post-diagnosis, and cancer-free adults. Irrespective of cancer history, the differences in global mental and physical health between the most and least active, and the least and most sedentary, were clinically significant. "The findings reinforce the importance of moving more and sitting less for both physical and mental health, no matter your age or history of cancer," said the American Cancer Society's Erika Rees-Punia. "This is especially relevant now as so many of us, particularly cancer survivors, may be staying home to avoid COVID-19 exposure, and may be feeling a little isolated or down. A simple walk or other physical activity that you enjoy may be good for your mind and body."