Older arthritis patients ‘can benefit from 45 minutes of exercise a week’

Older people with arthritis could see health benefits by engaging in just 45 minutes of physical activity per week, according to a new study.

The Northwestern Medicine study was designed to examine how elderly arthritis patients who are struggling to meet the US government-recommended target of 150 minutes of moderate activity per week can still experience the benefits of regular exercise.

Measuring the physical activity of 1,600 adults, it was found that participants who achieved a minimum of 45 minutes each week of moderate activity – such as brisk walking – were 80 percent more likely to improve or sustain high function over two years.

It was noted that it remains preferable to get as much exercise as possible, but for those who find it difficult to meet the recommended goal, it was emphasised that even doing a small amount is better than nothing.

Dorothy Dunlop, professor of rheumatology and preventive medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, said: "For those older people suffering from arthritis who are minimally active, a 45-minute minimum might feel more realistic."

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