It is well documented that regular physical activity is known to decrease disease prevention and improve the health of the individual. Engaging in regular physical activity is important in old age; As people age, their bones become weaker depending on the amount of physical activity they participate in. As older adults, for example, most older people move into residential homes because they cannot take care of themselves as much as necessary, from there this is where caregivers and fitness instructors come in to help those living in the residence. This essay will discuss the importance of physical activity and its benefits on the mental health of people such as the elderly. (The Effects of Exercise in Older Adults, October 18, 2008) The benefits of exercise are demonstrated in many cases such as activities involving movements that strengthen muscles and bones, for example; walking in place improves the functioning of the lungs and heart, circulates blood throughout the body and relaxes the muscles. Physical activity is great for the minds of older people, it keeps them focused, for example in some residences fitness instructors or caregivers play games with older people, such as passing the ball around the room or doing circulate beanbags because they are much softer. Other activities include getting up and walking around the room for about thirty to sixty seconds. This simply benefits older people as it helps increase bone density using their muscles and also helps maintain brain functions and a healthy mind. Research has shown that physical activity can benefit an older person's mental health; for example, a study on women from seventy years old...... middle of article...... risk of falling and bone fracture it is very beneficial for the elderly simply because their bones get weaker as they get older and certain tasks become more difficult. Exercise benefits older adults in several ways, as previously stated, it helps maintain a healthy mind and increase muscle strength.References (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.alz.co.uk/research/files/WorldAlzheimerReport.pdf (September 2007). Retrieved November 2013 from Fit For Life: http://fitforlife.ie/index.php/services/nursing-home-daycare-services/fit-for-life-groupexercise-therapy-session/ (1999). Elderly people. Historical document. Accessed November 2013 from http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/sgr/olderad.htm(2009). The Alzeimers report. London. Accessed November 2013 from http://www.alz.co.uk/research/files/WorldAlzheimerReport.pdf