I see many seniors who wish to remain active and enjoy running. Unfortunately many in this age group have degenerative change and osteoarthritis in their knees and other joints. This is often due to several factors like a previous injury, genetics, and mechanical wear and tear over time.
I often explain to my patients that their knees are like the moving parts of a car engine. Over time the parts may wear out, particularly if they are used for heavy activities such as long distance running. To help with symptoms, physiotherapy exercises to strengthen the quadriceps muscles (at the front of the thigh), weight loss and sometimes joint injections may be prescribed by your doctor.
Sometimes however the damage is so severe that your doctor may recommend replacing part or all of your knee joint.
I would suggest to your dad to consider taking up another activity such as brisk walking, swimming or cycling which has less impact to the knees.
If he does insist on running then an elliptical trainer in the gym may place less stress on his joints.
