Optimizing Exercise Performance in Older Adults

As the global population continues to age in parallel to the growing popularity of recreational athletics, it is becoming more important for physiatrists to understand the unique needs of the older athlete. The aging athlete is concerned with optimizing exercise performance, return to training and competition, and minimizing age-related physiological changes in order to maintain optimal function. Physiologic changes, cardiopulmonary risk screening, pharmacology, and training principles of the older athlete are all reviewed in order to provide an overview of issues that may arise more commonly in general physiatric practice as current trends continue.