Author(s)

Yanrong Pan ¹

Affiliation(s)

¹ Sichuan Minzu College, Kangding, Sichuan, 626001, China

Corresponding Author

Yanrong Pan

ABSTRACT

Against the backdrop of accelerating population aging, the proportion of China's population aged 60 and older has reached 20%, far exceeding the international threshold of 14% for a deeply aged society. Due to their prolonged exposure to low oxygen levels, low atmospheric pressure, cold temperatures, and intense ultraviolet radiation, the elderly in plateau regions face unique health challenges, including declining cardiopulmonary function, reduced exercise tolerance, and a high risk of altitude-related illnesses. Based on the concept of "integration of sports and health," this paper systematically explores the physical health issues and corresponding strategies for the elderly in plateau regions. Research indicates that the integration of physical fitness and healthcare in plateau regions must adhere to a three-pronged approach combining "scientific evidence, cultural wisdom, and policy support". By scientifically adapting traditional activities (such as the Guozhuang dance and Kora (ritual circumambulation of sacred sites)) and establishing a three-tiered service framework of "basic universal services, cultural integration, and individualized customization", we can realize the vision of enabling the elderly to "age in good health, with joy, and with purpose", thereby providing a theoretical foundation for healthy aging in high-altitude regions.

KEYWORDS

Integration of sports and health; high-altitude regions; older adults; physical fitness and health

CITE THIS PAPER

Yanrong Pan. Physical Health Issues and Countermeasures for the Elderly in Highland Regions: A Study Based on the Integration of Sports and Health. Social Medicine and Health Management (2026). Vol. 7, No.1, 55-63. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.23977/socmhm.2026.070107.

REFERENCES

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