Beneficial effects of mountaineering in elderly people: observational retrospective cohort study

Abstract

Background: Practicing moderate physical activity on a regular basis is an effective tool for primary, secondary and tertiary prevention that has few negative effects if it is carried out with the appropriate monitoring and control. In addition, the prescription of exercise is particularly useful for preventing premature death from all causes, ischemic heart disease, stroke, hypertension, colon and breast cancer, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity, osteoporosis, sarcopenia, functional dependence and falls in the elderly, cognitive impairment, anxiety and depression. Despite the clear benefits of exercising and the recommendations established, there are very few elderly people who indeed follow them. Mountaineering is an outdoor activity that combines strength, endurance, flexibility and balance, being in a healthy and peaceful environment. Although there is a lot of information about the benefits of exercise at all ages, there is little information on medical literature focused on the beneficial effects and risks of mountaineering in elderly people. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics and health condition of elderly people who practice mountaineering and compare them with individuals of the same age who do not practice this discipline. Design: This will be a pilot study designed as an observational retrospective cohort study with matching. Participants: The exposed cohort will include individuals aged 65 or over who regularly practice mountaineering and the non-exposed cohort will include individuals aged 65 or more who do not. Methods: The data will be obtained by contacting the main mountaineering clubs in La Garrotxa (Girona) and non-mountaineering organizations in the same region and by sending a questionnaire via email