OSTEOARTHRITIS
The most common condition that affects older individuals is osteoarthritis. Over time our bones and joints experience wear and tear. “It is a major cause of disability among older people and its impact is projected to increase with the aging of the U.S. population from the current level of 43 million to 60 million by 2020” (Centers for Disease Control, 1999). In order to reduce the pain that is caused by osteoarthritis, individuals minimize movement because osteoarthritis is known to be painful and cause limitations of mobility. One important factor that can increase osteoarthritis specifically in the hips and knees is obesity. In order to increase fitness amongst older aged adults there are several exercise techniques that can be used. Fitness walking has demonstrated the most effect in younger individuals with osteoarthritis. A study performed by Hughes, Seymour, Campbell, Pollak & et al (2004), “is assessing the short and long term efficacy and adherence to multicomponent exercise intervention for older persons with mild to moderate lower extremity osteoarthritis” (p. 218).