Borgess Heart Institute
In the region, Borgess has achieved more cardiac "firsts" than any other area hospital. We are devoted to advancing the science of cardiac medicine and shaping the future of heart care.

Borgess Brain & Spine Institute
The Borgess Brain & Spine Institute brings together the specialists of Borgess Neurology, Borgess Spine and Neurosurgery of Kalamazoo into a comprehensive team.

Borgess Women's Health
Our approach to women’s health emphasizes understanding and tending to your individual needs.

Vascular
Seven vascular specialty surgeons perform more than 1,500 vascular surgical procedures per year at Borgess Medical Center.

Borgess Bone & Joint Institute
Borgess Medical Center’s history is rich in orthopedics—from Dr. Homer Stryker’s orthopedic inventions in the 1930s to the first total joint replacement in 1970.

Index of Services
Looking for something else? View our index of medical services.

Find a Physician
We operate our physician referral service for physicians who are on our medical staff. There are no charges to the doctors or to you for this service.

Family Medicine
At Borgess, we realize the importance of keeping your family in good health and dedicate ourselves to making sure that they receive the best care possible.

Internal Medicine
As a patient of Borgess Internal Medicine, you can expect caring, specialized health care, where you are an active part of the decisions affecting you.

Pediatrics
We understand that children need special attention and sensitivity, especially when they’re sick.

Women's Health
Our approach to women’s health emphasizes understanding and tending to your individual needs.

View All Physician Offices
Looking for something else? Visit our Physicians section to learn about all of our Primary Care practices.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise and the aging person

Exercise benefits people of all ages
There are numerous benefits of following a regular exercise program - even for individuals who are challenged by such conditions as joint pain, back pain, arthritis, or osteoporosis - or individuals who are recovering from an injury or surgery (i.e., joint replacement, arthroscopy). Exercise has also been shown to be beneficial to people of all ages, as it helps to lower blood pressure, lower the risks of falls and serious injuries (such as hip or wrist fractures), and slows the body's loss of muscle and bone mass. In addition, exercise helps to accomplish the following:

  • increase flexibility

  • tone muscles

  • build stronger bones

  • improve mobility and balance

  • boost self-image

  • relieve insomnia

  • relieve tension and stress

  • maintain a healthy weight

  • enhance cardiovascular fitness

  • control appetite

  • increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels (the "good" cholesterol)

  • reduce the risk of disease (i.e., diabetes)

  • provide fun and enjoyment

  • provide for a longer, healthier life

  • reduce joint and muscle pain

It is never too late to start an exercise program. With today's medical technology and scientific advances, the average life expectancy for men and women is increasing. Coupled with this is the fact that with longer lives, people are looking for a higher quality of living - with greater importance placed on independent, healthy living. Exercise is a great way to keep older people active, but should be approached with caution. Exercise does not have to be vigorous to be beneficial. Even a walk around the park or 30 minutes working in the garden can be helpful for any age body and mind.

If you have an existing medical condition, or are just starting an exercise program, be sure to consult your physician prior to beginning the program to make sure the exercise program that you choose is designed with your health and wellness top of mind.