Diet and exercise fads you see on TV or online usually sell themselves by featuring trim, athletic men and women in their 20s. But as the average age in the U.S. shifts older, there is a growing need for workouts tailor-made for retired people to help them maintain independence and lifestyle as they age.
PBS NewsHour recently traveled to Gainesville, Florida, to profile a university-based retirement community — one of more than 70 in the U.S. that create unique opportunities for retirees to enjoy perks of the college community. Residents of Oak Hammock, for example, have access to a 22,000 square foot fitness center and personal instruction by students and staff from University of Florida’s College of Health and Human Performance.
For older people just starting to work out, whether you are 55 or 95 years old, it’s important to ensure that exercise does not cause more harm than good. Oak Hammock’s fitness program director Justin Smith helped NewsHour to outline some tips for older people on how to get active safely.
