A number of professionals are familiar with the special physical needs of older people. Doctors who specialize in sports medicine are highly qualified to help you exercise the right way. So are professionals who have a college degree in exercise physiology. They can help you start an exercise program tailored to your needs, build it up to your best possible level, then show you how to continue safely on your own.
Physical therapists also are qualified to design exercise plans for older people, especially those who have conditions affecting their muscles and skeletal systems, or nervous-system conditions that affect their muscles. Sme physical therapists take special training for a certification in geriatrics.
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) also trains and certifies people to work with older adults. The ACSM is made up of health professionals and scientists with an interest in fitness. ACSM-certified fitness instructors work in a variety of settings; for example, you might find them leading hospital-based exercise programs for older adults, working with older people in exercise studies, or working as personal trainers.
Cardiologists can advise you on how to improve your cardiovascular system through endurance exercise. Orthopedic doctors can help you understand how to prevent injuries to your muscles, bones, and other structures.
Many hospitals and health plans now have wellness centers that offer exercise programs. Some colleges and universities hold special exercise classes for older adults or conduct studies on exercise for older people. It’s likely that the fitness instructors hired by these organizations are carefully screened and are qualified to teach you how to exercise correctly. Try calling them to find a fitness professional in your area.
If you do consult a fitness instructor, ask for his or her credentials. Any instructor who is qualified to work with older people is likely to be proud of his or her credentials and will be happy to share them with you. Also ask about expense. Costs vary, and insurance plans differ as to what kinds of services they will cover.
