This paper reports evidence indicating that adapted exercise has a preventive effect on the incidence and progression of chronic diseases which are often related to the aging process. Exercise is known to preserve many physiological responses in the healthy elderly, yet those with physical impairments are often discouraged from exercising because they are considered either too fragile or too mentally inept to receive benefits from physical exercise. However, their need for physical movement and self-esteem is the same as for the "normal" population. The cost/benefit ratio will have far-reaching economic impact if the progress of degenerative disease is ameliorated by regular exercise. Exercises should be modified and adapted to provide for varying levels of skills and ability among senior citizens. Key to developing a safe and beneficial program is a facilitator/instructor who is aware of the following: (1) normal and abnormal responses to exercise; (2) knowledge of whether responses are functional, behavioral, or medication-related; (3) knowledge of correct techniques for exercise movements; and (4) the ability to adapt exercises to extenuating circumstances. Exercise programming based on facts, not stereotypes, should be available for all older adults and, in particular, the mentally impaired, diseased, or otherwise disabled older adult. (LL)