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I've been a doctor for nearly twenty years. I see many people in their fifties and beyond who are at risk for health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. I always stress that regular exercise can help prevent these serious health problems. Still, many of my patients don't exercise. What am I missing?

It is possible that some of your patients have old injuries that keep them from exercising. A recent study found that in a group of people over sixty, injury was a main barrier to exercise for nearly half of them. You may want to ask your patients what they see as a barrier to being more active, and then address each case individually. Also, work closely with other resources in your health care community so you know whom to send patients to for their specific needs. For example, find out which physical therapists will design structured exercise programs for patients who've had past injuries. Yoga and Tai Chi classes designed for the elderly can help improve flexibility, balance, and muscle strength if these are causing problems.

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