Physically Active Leisure among Older Adults

Modern nations have experienced both rapid aging of the population and dramatically increasing health care costs. Physical activity has been clearly identified as a critical variable in determining both quality of life and health care costs among older adults. While numerous policies and studies have been devoted to increasing physical activity among the older population, there is insufficient knowledge of which forms of physical activity are more effective and sustainable. This book provides empirical research evidence about the importance of leisure-time physical activities compare to other forms of physical activities and discusses the possibility of multidisciplinary efforts in advancing active lifestyles for older adults. It is a timely and relevant contribution to promoting active lifestyles as the aging population increases dramatically. The book is addressed to professionals and researchers in Gerontology, Public Health, Medicine, Kinesiology, Sports Sciences and Leisure Studies. It is also very helpful for all those involved in making/promoting active lifestyle policies and programs for older adults. Godbey, Geoffrey,Professor Emeritus, Penn State University, said: This book makes an important contribution to our understanding of physical activity among older adults, the comparative importance of leisure activity, housework and paid work in providing physical activity, and ways in which such activity can be measured. It is first-class scholarship, which provides many implications for interventions to increase physical activity of adults age 50 and older.