The biological effects associated with prolonged sitting are an independent risk factor for multiple challenging health conditions and early death. There are postural concerns, but largely it is the inactivity of prolonged sitting that promotes conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, certain cancers and lower back pain.
The average American working in an office easily sits between 12 to 15 hours each day. Long commutes to and from work, labor-saving devices and a lack of support for active lifestyles contribute to this growing problem.
The effects of inactivity may cause reduced mobility with age, and with this a loss of independence, resulting in psychological and social challenges. Senior citizens who lose their ability to live on their own may experience an inability to socialize with their friends, an increasing sense of loss, growing depression and anger. Seniors who lose their independence may also experience a loss of cognitive function.