Improve Physical Activity in Elderly with Longevity Gene

According to Medical News, researchers from the University of Missouri have found that the longevity gene can help the elderly with exercise and other physical activities. By using gene therapy, mice were given the longevity gene and put on a treadmill. The mice did significantly better after the gene therapy indicating that the longevity gene does have some influence on physical activity.

This could mean great things for the elderly. Once more research is done in this area, this gene therapy given to mice may be able to be used on humans. The benefits of this are great!

Benefits of Exercise in the Elderly

As we all know, exercise and healthy eating are two biggest steps in fighting illness and disease. As you grow older, you may lose the physical ability to exercise as much as you should. With more physical activity, the elderly will be able to exercise more, which will keep bones strong, joints flexible and the keep heart strength.

Taking Advantage of the Gene Therapy

Of course, there needs to be more research before humans  will be able to benefit from this. However, with the rapid movement of genetics, this time may come sooner than later. The question is, how many people will go through the gene therapy and then actually become motivated to take advantage of their new ability to do physical activity.

(Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcohenchromiste/2722882460/)

August 21st, 2009 by Marcelina Hardy | Posted in Genetics and Society | (0)