Final answer:
Regular aerobic activities and strength training are essential for older adults to effectively manage body weight and counteract the decrease in the body's metabolic rate due to aging. These exercises increase cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and overall well-being, which are crucial in mitigating age-related physical and cognitive decline.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impact of Aerobic and Strength Training on Older Adults
Engaging in aerobic activities and strength training on a regular basis is highly beneficial for older adults in managing body weight and significantly reducing the risk of various health issues. Increased physical activity not only helps in weight loss and weight maintenance, but it also combats the natural decrease of the body's metabolic rate due to aging. As the metabolic rate declines with age, largely due to reduced lean muscle mass, it becomes increasingly important to participate in physical activities that counteract this trend.
Aerobic exercises such as walking, cycling, and running are known to increase cardiovascular health and muscular endurance. Strength training, on the other hand, increases muscle strength and mass, which can, in effect, help reverse or slow down the decline in the body's metabolic rate. Regular participation in these activities can alleviate the progressive impact of aging, leading to enhanced overall health, improved cognitive function, and a higher quality of life.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommends that adults aged 18 to 64 engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week. These activities support a healthy metabolic rate, assist in managing body composition, and facilitate healthy aging by reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving physical and mental capabilities.