How To Prescribe Physical Activity Programs

1. Provide concrete and consistent information
2. Make recommendations that are clear & consistent
3. Recognize obstacles that people face in beginning & maintaining a physical activity program.

• Assess current physical activity levels and incorporate behavioral strategies to increase physical activity into daily practice when interacting with older adults.
• Use assessment tools to determine the risk, ability, and most appropriate physical activity prescription for your patient.
• Prescribe an evidence-based, individualized program for each patient such as the First Step to Active Health^®. Programs should include cardiorespiratory, strength, flexibility, and balance activities.
• Review the contents of the individualized activity program with each patient. Inform patients how to progress their programs, and follow-up with the patient by having patients complete the physical activity logs.
• Use guidelines to modify programs for special populations.
• Use resources to refer patients to other professionals or sources of information, particularly in your local community.