If you're not exercising regularly, ask your doctor if it would be advisable. If he thinks you should exercise, choose an activity, such as walking, cycling or swimming, that won't cause stress to your joints or tendons - and don't start out too strenuously.
Check with your local Age Concern office or health club for classes in aerobics and calisthenics tailored for older bodies. Whatever exercise you select, in order to reduce the chances of injury, warm up and cool down gradually.
If you have difficulty walking or are otherwise disabled, rent or buy exercise cassettes to guide you in less strenuous fitness routines. Or seek out an adult activities centre where a professional instructor leads special exercise sessions.
To keep fit mentally, stay involved. Church, family and volunteer activities; crafts, puzzles and games; and especially a wide circle of friends - all contribute to sustained mental alertness. If you live alone, adopt a pet, preferably one that's easy to look after. If a dog is too much to handle, consider a cat instead or perhaps a bird or fish.
