We’re not slowing down yet! Elders are exercising MORE – with the biggest increases seen in over 75s
- Middle aged people and pensioners are increasing their activity levels
- Since 2015/16 those aged 55-74 have increased their exercise levels by 3.4%
- Those aged over 75 are doing 4.7 per cent more, Age UK report revealed
Elders in England are getting off the sofa and getting fit, a new report reveals.
Middle aged people and pensioners are increasing their activity levels, while younger groups are doing less exercise than ever before.
Since 2015/16 those aged 55 to 74 have increased their exercise levels by 3.4 per cent and those aged over 75 are doing 4.7 per cent more.
The figures – taken from Sport England’s Active Lives Adult Survey – suggest people are spending more of their retirement getting fit.
It’s never too late to start exercising, according to a major study which found over-60s who became more active cut their risk of heart attack and stroke
Caroline Abrahams, charity director for Age UK, said: ‘Even small amounts of physical activity can make a difference to a person’s health, lowering the risk of developing serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
‘Along with lowering risks of dementia and maintaining thinking skills in later life, performing exercises that improve muscle strength can also reduce the risk of falls by improving posture, coordination and balance.
‘Often older people feel that regular physical activity is not for them but even people who are immobile or unwell can feel the benefit. We don’t expect everyone to run the marathon and it’s not appropriate that they do, simply doing some stretching exercises while sitting in a chair is a help.
‘It doesn’t matter whether you’re aged 25 or 85, it’s never too late to take small steps towards moving more on a daily basis and maintaining those levels throughout the year.’