In many parts of the country, summer offers abundant opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Although physical activity delivers clear health benefits for older adults, activity levels often decline with age because of chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or other barriers. The CDC reports that by age 75 roughly one in three men and one in two women engage in no regular physical activity, even though adults 65 and older are advised to aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity.
So how can continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), life plan communities, and other senior living settings encourage and support residents to stay active? A recent report from The Mather Institute provides useful findings and practical recommendations.
The many benefits of staying active for seniors
Reduced activity with age can become a self-reinforcing cycle: lower activity leads to loss of strength and stamina, which then makes movement more difficult and discouraging. Yet remaining active yields significant physical and mental health gains.
According to public health guidance, regular physical activity among older adults helps in several important ways:
- Supports independent living and lowers the risk of falls and fractures.
- Reduces the risk of coronary heart disease and may lower the incidence of high blood pressure, colon cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
- Can lower blood pressure for some people with hypertension.
- Improves stamina and muscle strength for people with chronic or disabling conditions.
- Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression and improves mood and overall sense of well-being.
- Maintains healthy bones, muscles, and joints.
- Helps control joint swelling and pain associated with osteoarthritis.
>> Related: Adult Swim: Study Finds Senior Swimmers Less Likely to Experience Falls
Common barriers that keep seniors from being active
Despite the benefits, only a minority of older adults meet recommended activity levels. The Mather Institute’s report identifies several common obstacles that prevent seniors from being more physically active.
Low awareness
Many older adults are simply unaware of how much activity they should aim for, and they may not know about low- or no-cost fitness programs available to them. Although cost and proximity matter for community-dwelling seniors, programs inside senior living communities are typically easy to access. Effective use of community calendars and clear program descriptions can help residents learn what’s available.
Lack of knowledge
Some seniors are unsure what types of exercises are safe and effective for their health status, especially those with arthritis or other chronic conditions. Healthcare providers don’t always offer specific exercise guidance, particularly for low-income older adults. Education and guided instruction—offered during move-in, through introductory classes, or via one-on-one coaching—can increase confidence and participation. Virtual exercise resources also provide convenient options for residents who prefer to exercise at home using a computer or smartphone.
Personal preferences
Not everyone enjoys structured workouts. Lack of motivation or dislike of formal exercise can be a barrier. Programs that help residents find activities they enjoy—or that help them learn to appreciate the positive sensations of activity—tend to be more effective. Incorporating gamification or smartphone apps can add motivation and variety.
Physical ability concerns
Worry about injury, falls, or pain from chronic conditions often discourages movement. The Mather report recommends reframing physical activity as a tool to preserve and improve function, rather than as a risk to be avoided. When exercise is presented as a way to maintain independence and mobility, residents may be more likely to participate.
Psychosocial barriers
Several social and psychological factors can inhibit activity, including:
- Low confidence in one’s ability to exercise
- Negative beliefs about aging
- Perceived social norms
- Lack of opportunities for socialization
- Loneliness and social anxiety
- Difficulty with delayed gratification
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How CCRCs support resident activity
Living in a senior community, and particularly in a CCRC, can help address many of these barriers. CCRCs commonly provide a broad range of wellness resources—group exercise classes, fitness centers, indoor pools, and organized sports like golf, tennis, and pickleball—that combine physical benefits with social engagement.
Many campuses are designed for walkability, offering sidewalks, paths, and trails. Some communities employ personal trainers or fitness staff who tailor safe, enjoyable programs for residents. The social environment also matters: seeing peers or partners remain active can motivate others to join in, and social support from friends and family is strongly linked to higher activity levels.
>> Related: Why Walkability is Important When Choosing a Senior Living Location
Ways CCRCs can further encourage activity
Even effective communities can expand their reach. The Mather report offers practical suggestions for senior living providers that want to boost resident activity:
- Enhance resident communications and education about group and individual exercise options.
- Create innovative programming that adds a social element to make exercise more enjoyable.
- Promote how activity can prevent or help manage chronic conditions and mobility problems.
- Build residents’ confidence in their abilities and foster a positive perspective on aging.
The full Mather Institute report, “Stumbling Blocks: Identifying and Overcoming Older Adults’ Barriers to Physical Activity,” offers additional detail and recommendations for communities seeking to increase activity among older adults.