[Medical Q&A] Is it suitable for the elderly to exercise in the morning?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Mei Xue, Chief Physician, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University

It is not suitable for the elderly to exercise in the morning.

After a night's sleep, the body has basically not replenished water, and due to sweating after exercise, the blood viscosity is relatively high. The lower temperature in the morning can cause vasoconstriction, affecting blood flow rate, and aggravating ischemic symptoms during exercise. Especially for patients with hypertension, the risk of myocardial ischemia and cerebral hemorrhage is higher at dawn.

Elderly people who exercise on an empty stomach in the morning are at risk of hypoglycemia and hypotension. For patients with hypertension and diabetes, taking medication on time is a basic requirement for effectively controlling the "three highs". Exercising on an empty stomach will further increase the consumption of sugars. When the water intake is insufficient, orthostatic hypotension is likely to occur. In severe cases, dizziness, palpitations, and even syncope may occur.

The elderly have declining bodily functions, and their balance and muscle coordination become worse. They are more likely to fall and get injured when exercising in the early morning when the light is poor. At this time, the time required to be discovered by their companions will be prolonged, which can easily delay timely medical treatment.

Therefore, "an old person in the family is like a treasure". Children should spend more time with the elderly, explain to them scientific ways and methods of exercise, and promptly discover any physical and psychological needs of the elderly, so that the elderly can enjoy their old age.