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Active
Women Live Independently Longer
Older women who take regular walks and remain active have
a much better chance of living independent lives as they
age, according to a new study published.
The finding was based on 171 women whose average age was
74 at the start of a 14-year study described as the first
long-term look at physical activity and the ability to function
later in life.
"Functional status relates directly to what people
can do for themselves, so having a high functional status
means the person is more likely to be able to live independently,"
said Jennifer Brach of the University of Pittsburgh School
of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, chief author of the
study.
"Regular physical activity, which can be as simple
as walking, not only helps people to live longer and healthier,
it helps them to live with fewer limitations and a better
quality of life," she added in the study published
in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
Women in the study were checked intermittently via a questionnaire
and tests that measured what they did in the way of sports
or leisure activities, number of blocks walked and other
physical activity.
The researchers found that women who were the most active,
and were most consistent about getting exercise, were the
most likely to be living independently 14 years later. Women
who were always inactive were less likely to be independent,
the study said. No details on blocks walked or other kinds
of physical activity was listed.
"With people living longer, this emphasizes that everyone,
young and old alike, should be physically active,"
Brach added.
Article Source: Reuters Health
Article Author: N/A
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