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VRQ

UV31478

Principles of physical activity for older adults

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UV31478Principles of physical activity for older adults

The aim of this unit is to provide you with the underpinning knowledge and understanding of the demographics and theories of ageing, and the benefits of and barriers to physical activity for older adults. In addition, you will address the physiological and biomechanical impact of ageing, and the importance of nutrition and hydration.

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GLH

Credit value

Level

Observation(s)

External paper(s)

16

3

3

0

0

On completion of this unit you will:

Learning outcomes Evidence requirements

Principles of physical activity for older adults

1. Understand the demographics and theories of ageing

2. Understand anatomy and physiology in relation to physical activity for older adults

3. Understand the physiological and biochemical impact of ageing on the human body

4. Understand the benefits of and barriers to physical activity for older adults

5. Understand the importance of nutrition, hydration and fluid replacement for older adults

1. Knowledge outcomes There must be evidence that you possess all the knowledge and understanding listed in the Knowledge section of this unit. In most cases this can be done by professional discussion and/or oral questioning. Other methods, such as projects, assignments and/or reflective accounts may also be used.

2. Tutor/Assessor guidance You will be guided by your tutor/assessor on how to achieve learning outcomes in this unit. All outcomes must be achieved.

3. External paper There is no external paper requirement for this unit.

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Achieving knowledge outcomes

Developing knowledge

You will be guided by your tutor and assessor on the evidence that needs to be produced. Your knowledge and understanding will be assessed using the assessment methods listed below*:

• Projects• Observed work• Witness statements• Audio-visual media • Evidence of prior learning or attainment• Written questions• Oral questions• Assignments• Case studies• Professional discussion

Where applicable your assessor will integrate knowledge outcomes into practical observations through professional discussion and/or oral questioning.

When a criterion has been orally questioned and achieved, your assessor will record this evidence in written form or by other appropriate means. There is no need for you to produce additional evidence as this criterion has already been achieved.

Some knowledge and understanding outcomes may require you to show that you know and understand how to do something. If you have practical evidence from your own work that meets knowledge criteria, then there is no requirement for you to be questioned again on the same topic.

*This is not an exhaustive list.

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Knowledge

Outcome 1

Understand the demographics and theories of ageing

You can: Portfolio reference

a. Explain the demographic aspects of ageing

b. Describe the different theories of ageing

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Outcome 2

Understand anatomy and physiology in relation to physical activity for older adults

You can: Portfolio reference

a. Explain the short and long-term effects of exercise on blood pressure

b. Identify classifications of blood pressure and associated health risks

c. Explain the endocrine system and its relationship to exercise

d. Explain the neuromuscular adaptations to exercise and the benefits for older adults

e. Explain the causes of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)

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Outcome 3

Understand the physiological and biochemical impact of ageing on the human body

You can: Portfolio reference

a. Explain the changes to the skeletal system associated with ageing

b. Explain the changes to the muscular system associated with ageing

c. Explain the changes to the respiratory system associated with ageing

d. Explain the changes to the cardiovascular system associated with ageing

e. Explain the changes to the nervous system associated with ageing

f. Explain the implications of these changes for older adults and their ability to perform physical activity

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Outcome 4

Understand the benefits of and barriers to physical activity for older adults

You can: Portfolio reference

a. Explain benefits of regular physical activity throughout the lifespan

b. Summarise current research on physical activity, physical inactivity and ageing

c. Describe common barriers to physical activity for older adults

d. Provide solutions for common barriers to physical activity for older adults

e. Outline the medical conditions common in old age

f. Describe age-associated sensory system abnormalities

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Outcome 5

Understand the importance of nutrition, hydration and fluid replacement for older adults

You can: Portfolio reference

a. Describe general principles of nutrition for older adults

b. Explain the importance of hydration and fluid replacement, particularly when participating in physical activity

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Outcome 1: Understand the demographics and theories of ageing

Unit content

This section provides guidance on the recommended knowledge and skills required to enable you to achieve each of the learning outcomes in this unit. Your tutor/assessor will ensure you have the opportunity to cover all of the unit content.

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Demographic aspects: Age, gender, culture, ethnicity, socio-economic status, geographical location.

Theories of ageing: Chronological age (50+), biological age, functional age, pathological age, successful age.

Outcome 2: Understand anatomy and physiology in relation to physical activity for older adults

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Effects of exercise on blood pressure: Short-term effects (dilation, increased blood flow), long-term effects (improved elasticity, capillarisation, decrease in systolic and diastolic pressure at rest).

Blood pressure classifications and associated health risks: Definition of blood pressure (systolic pressure, diastolic pressure), classifications (hypotension, normal, high normal, mild hypertension, moderate hypertension, severe hypertension), associated health risks of hypertension (e.g. coronary heart disease, angina, atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, loss of vision).

Endocrine system and its relationship to exercise: Release of hormones, can improve organ function, physical appearance, state of mind.

Hormones –

Pituitary gland – releases human growth hormone, increase in bone/muscle/tissue production.

Thyroid gland – regulates temperature/heart rate/blood pressure, regulates alertness and focus.

Adrenal gland – release of cortisol (controls blood pressure, glucose, acts as anti-inflammatory agent), release of aldosterone (regulates hydration levels, speed of the heart, strength of contractions, converts stored carbohydrates into energy).

Pancreas – release of insulin (regulates glucose), improves insulin sensitivity.

Psychological effects of hormones –testosterone (increases libido, confidence), endorphins (reduces tension and anxiety, gives feel good factor).

Neuromuscular adaptations to exercise: Central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, somatic, autonomic, sympathetic, parasympathetic, relationship to aspects of exercise performance (stimulation of exercise hormones, sensory control, balance and co-ordination control, motor skill performance, neuromuscular performance), specific disability leads to impairment of specific aspects of exercise performance.

Causes of delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS): Microscopic tearing of muscle fibres, amount of tearing (dependent on duration/intensity/type of exercise), eccentric contractions (associated with DOMS).

Outcome 3: Understand the physiological and biochemical impact of ageing on the human body

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Skeletal system changes: Decreased bone mineral content, increased risk of fracture, long-term stress on joints, decreased availability of synovial fluid, calcification of cartilage, reduced joint stability, reduced range of movement, thinned intervertebral discs, associated postural and postural stability problems, implications for performing physical activity (benefits, risks).

Muscular system changes: Reduced motor function (reduced motor unit size, loss of fine control), decreased size and number of muscle fibres, fewer fast twitch fibres, reduced concentration of protein (lean body mass), reduced size and number of mitochondria, reduced capillarity, increased connective tissue, reduced elasticity in ligaments and tendons, reduced strength and power, reduced metabolism, implications for performing physical activity (benefits, risks).

Respiratory system changes: Decreased gaseous exchange, decreased elasticity of the lungs, reduced flexibility of the thoracic cage, reduced vital capacity, reduced lung capacity caused by poor posture, implications for performing physical activity (benefits, risks).

Cardiovascular system changes: Decreased cardiac muscle and heart volume, decreased maximal heart rate, reduced efficiency of circulatory system, increased blood pressure, decreased capillary network, decreased blood vessel elasticity, reduced amount of oxygen in blood, reduced amount of oxygen delivered to cells, reduced oxygen exchange in muscle, reduced tolerance to fatigue and acidity, reduced maximal oxygen uptake, slower recovery rate, implications for

performing physical activity (benefits, risks).

Nervous system changes: Decreased number of nerves, decreased speed of transmission, decreased central processing, decreased mass and strength in eye muscles, decreased elasticity in eye, decreased hydration of eye, increased eye infections, reduced aural acuity, decreased vestibular and proprioception, reduced motor learning and control, reduced short term memory, implications for performing physical activity (benefits, risks).

Outcome 4: Understand the benefits and barriers of physical activity for older adults

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Benefits of regular physical activity throughout lifespan:

Health and functional benefits of physical activity – prevention of falls, reducing joint stiffness, disease prevention (e.g. coronary heart disease), managing osteoporosis, improving cardiorespiratory health, minimising muscle loss, health promotion (e.g. reduced morbidity), preservation of function (e.g. range of motion and mobility), improved quality of life (e.g. independence), social benefits/interaction, reducing isolation, maintenance of independence, role in peer mentoring.

Psychosocial wellbeing – improved mental health (e.g. reduced anxiety, depression and stress), improved self-efficacy, improved self-esteem, enhanced body image, improved self-confidence and social confidence, social acceptance, social inclusion.

Current research: Physical inactivity increases with age, ageing (prevalence of potentially serious disease, ageing process begins at 40 years, body system losses from age 40 result in 1-2% loss in physical capacity).

Common barriers to physical activity: Physical (e.g. medical conditions, fitness level), attitudes (e.g. lack of interest), beliefs (e.g. exercise is for young people), anxieties (e.g. fear of change or unknown), myths (e.g. older adults are unable to improve fitness), opinions formed by past experiences (e.g. exercise is uncomfortable), cultural restrictions, transport and accessibility, financial costs.

Provide solutions for common barriers to physical activity: Goal setting, motivational strategies, positive

reinforcement, exercise environment, individual or group settings, programme design, communication with other professionals, alternatives, adaptations, choice.

Medical conditions common in old age: Vascular disease, ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, hypertension, arrhythmia, heart failure, respiratory disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, brain disease, Parkinsonism and Parkinson’s disease, depression, dementia, musculoskeletal disorders, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, endocrine and metabolic disorders, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis.

Age-associated sensory system abnormalities: Sensory system abnormalities and nervous system integration (cataracts, glaucoma, senile macular degeneration, Ménières disease).

Outcome 5: Understand the importance of nutrition, hydration and fluid replacement for older adults

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General principles of nutrition for older adults: Recommended nutritional balance before/during/after activity (main food groups, appropriate food types, quantities, timings), significance (replenish and maintain energy levels, reduce recovery time, promote muscle repair, optimise physical adaptations, minimise aggravation of health conditions, minimise interference with efficacy of medication).

Importance of hydration and fluid replacement: Recommended hydration and fluid before/during/after activity (type, quantity, timings), prevent dehydration, promote rehydration.