Physical activity can maximize health by improving disease-oriented and patient-oriented outcomes in women age 60 and older. General activity levels are low in the United States. Promoting physical activity in clinical practice is limited by time constraints and knowledge defi cits. Understanding the benefi ts of the specifi c type of physical activity, the intensity, and the level in older women helps clinicians provide focused, time-effi cient counseling in primary care. This review details the benefi ts of physical activity in older women by disease state.
KEY POINTSSex-specifi c differences in diseases exist for older women.The leading causes of disability and death in women over age 60 are cardiovascular disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, cancer, cognitive decline, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depression, musculoskeletal disorders, osteoporosis, and falls, all of which are improved by physical activity.Primary care counseling on routine physical activity and exercise can increase the level of activity in women age 60 and older and improve clinical outcomes.