More older adults are staying active than ever before

Sport England’s Active Lives Survey Data has shown that adults across Worcestershire over the age of 55 have become more active since the survey first began.

The data shows that there has been an increase across Herefordshire and Worcestershire of older adults doing at least 150 minutes of physical activity from 52.25% in November 2015-2016, to 57.61% in November 2022-2023.

Worcestershire rose from 52.4% to 58.02%, and Herefordshire jumped from 52.1% to 57.2%.

This comes as part of a broader effort to promote positive ageing during Positive Ageing Week (30th September – 6th October), a global initiative celebrating older people.

Regular exercise, particularly strength-building activities, can play a crucial role in maintaining health as we get older. It helps reduce the risk of frailty, prevents falls, eases arthritis pain, improves sleep, and boosts both mood and memory.

The NHS recommends that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, along with two sessions focused on strength and balance.

Recognising the importance of healthy ageing, Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire have teamed up with Herefordshire Council and Worcestershire County Council to raise awareness about the benefits of staying active later in life.

Throughout Positive Ageing Week, they will be sharing tips, guidance, and resources across social media to help residents stay fit and independent as they age.

Dr Lisa McNally, Director of Public Health for Worcestershire County Council and Cate Carmichael, Director of Public Health for Herefordshire Council said: "It’s incredibly encouraging to see that more people are staying active in later life, as highlighted by this survey from Sport England.

“Maintaining physical activity is vital for everyone, but it becomes especially important as we age.

“Resistance exercises, in particular, play a key role in strengthening our arms, legs, and improving our balance, which are essential for our overall health and wellbeing.”

Councillor David Ross, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Worcestershire County Council said: 
"Exercise doesn’t have to be a boring or difficult task. Just ten minutes a day of muscle-strengthening activities can make a big difference. Exercising with others turns it into a fun, social event, which is also great for mental health. That’s why we offer free weekly Healthy Worcestershire sessions across the county, giving you the chance to stay active, healthy, and connect with new people in your neighbourhood."

For more information about ageing positively, visit the Ageing Well pages of the County Council's website.

To find out more about Healthy Worcestershire take a look at the dedicated pages of the County Council's website.