Beneficios físicos y psicológicos del ejercicio físico en adultos mayores: revisión bibliográfica

Abstract

This study examines the physical and psychological benefits of exercise in older adults, highlighting its role as a fundamental tool for promoting healthy and active aging. Physical exercise not only improves physical health but also contributes to mental well-being, promoting an optimal quality of life. The main objective was to analyze the physical and psychological benefits of exercise in older adults through a literature review, aiming to understand its impact on quality of life. The methodology employed in this research was a qualitative approach, conducted through a literature review. To conduct this review, various digital databases in Spanish and English were consulted, including Google Scholar, Dialnet, Redalyc, SciELO, Science, and Scopus. The inclusion criteria for this research were articles, theses, and valid documents published within the last ten years in Spanish or English, while the exclusion criteria were documents published more than ten years ago, studies unrelated to the variables of the topic, and those that lacked relevance. As a result, 25 studies were selected, comprising 13 intervention studies, and 12 literature reviews. The findings show that physical exercise in older adults enhances their overall health and well-being, improving their strength, balance, function, and autonomy. Multicomponent programs adapted to their abilities provide significant physical and psychological benefits, promoting healthy and active aging. Keywords: physical exercise, mental health, older adults, quality of life