Korean J Geriatr Gerontol.  2023 Aug;24(2):65-71. 10.15656/kjcg.2023.24.2.65.

Individualized Exercise Recommendations for the Frailty Populations: Focusing on Elderly and Cancer Survivors

• Lee CH

• KMID: 2566356
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.15656/kjcg.2023.24.2.65

Abstract

The topic of what kind of exercise, how much, and how intensely to exercise is a major concern for anyone trying to get healthy through exercise and is clinically important for disease outcomes. However, patients often exercise without knowledge of appropriate exercise guidelines, and healthcare providers are often unable to proactively provide appropriate exercise recommendations to their patients. In this paper, we review the current literature on exercise and present these guidelines, especially for cancer patients and the elderly. Using Pubmed and Google scholar searches, we conducted searches using key words such as optimal intensity, cancer rehabilitation, exercise intensity, elderly, and advanced rehabilitation, and developed a conclusion based on the literature review. In special situations, such as the elderly or cancer patients, active exercise, even when their physical fitness is greatly reduced, can increase the benefits of exercise and can prevent a variety of diseases and make them healthier, thus increasing their quality of life. The purpose of exercise is to increase the quantity or quality of muscle strength to prevent sarcopenia. In addition, aerobic and flexibility exercises are necessary. Exercise should be done at a moderate to high intensity to maintain or increase health status, and an individualized approach should be taken to prevent complications and injuries by gradually increasing the intensity of the exercise. Obesity should be actively prevented, and a personalized exercise program that takes into account the specifics of the individual can be a good recommendation for successful treatment.

Keyword

Cancer survivors; Exercise; Health services for the aged; Physical fitness