Intérêt de l'exercice physique régulier en prévention chez le sujet âgé. Faisabilité en pratique de médecine générale

In addition to increasing steadily, the proportion of elderly subjects in the general population in France is also increasingly disability free. This population of physically able old subjects should take advantage of the proven beneficial effect of regular physical exercise. It is known that physical training decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer, and can prevent obesity, limit osteoporosis, and improve psychological well-being and quality of life. Self-independence is also favored, retarding the need for assistance in daily activities. To achieve these benefits, it is recommended to walk at a good speed for 30 minutes a day. Only 18% of persons aged 65 and over practice physical activities daily. One solution would be for the general practitioner to prescribe physical exercises as primary prevention, a solution hampered by lack of time or competence in preventive medicine and the absence of reimbursement of such measures by the healthcare fund. To promote physical activity in elderly subjects, practical advice is needed. Exercises must be adapted to the physical capacity and lifestyle of the individual. Communication strategies promoted by the medias and health authorities are needed to assist general practitioners in instituting these preventive measures.