As we age, staying active becomes more than just a way to maintain physical fitness—it becomes crucial for managing chronic conditions and staying socially connected. Our latest research has highlighted how vital exercise is for seniors, especially in light of rising living costs. Over half (55%) of seniors say that staying active helps them manage chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or hypertension, while 31% say it helps them stay connected to their community and friends.

In this study, we surveyed over 2,000 over-60s in the UK to understand the benefits of staying active and the barriers seniors face in maintaining a physically active lifestyle.

For many over 60s, regular exercise is not just about staying in shape—it’s a way to control health conditions that are increasingly common as we age. With over half of respondents stating that physical activity helps with this, it’s clear that staying active plays a critical role in maintaining independence and quality of life.

Daily movement helps alleviate pain and stiffness in those with arthritis, while regular activity improves cardiovascular health and blood sugar control, making it a powerful tool for those with hypertension and diabetes. The physical benefits of staying active are impressive, and 68% of seniors say that they stay active to boost mobility and general wellbeing, especially the 75-79 year-old age group, where 74% saw this benefit.

Carole, 75, a mum-of-two from Barnet, found that regular exercise transformed her health after a challenging battle with cancer and osteoporosis. Following her cancer treatment, she struggled with fatigue and pain, but a referral to Better’s Healthwise exercise scheme helped her regain strength and mobility.

“The classes have made a huge difference,” says Carole. “I’m no longer in pain, and the focus and guidance in the sessions are invaluable. Everyone in the class is in the same age bracket, but we all have different health issues. I’m not lonely in general, but the social aspect of the classes is so important, and we all chat before and after the sessions. There isn’t one person who doesn’t come out feeling better both mentally and physically. If you feel stronger in your body, you automatically feel better all around.”

As Carole explains above, alongside physical health, regular exercise provides seniors with important social benefits. Almost one-third (31%) of seniors in the study said that staying active helps them feel more connected to their community and friends. Group fitness classes, walking clubs, and even gym visits offer more than just a chance to stay fit—they’re an opportunity to socialise and foster relationships.

Loneliness is a significant issue among the elderly, with many feeling increasingly isolated as they age. Participating in group activities can dramatically reduce these feelings, with 48% of seniors in the survey reporting that they felt less lonely after getting involved in fitness activities. Moreover, 52% said they had made new friends through exercise, showing just how powerful physical activity can be in fostering community and combating loneliness.

According to the research, 78% of seniors reported improved mental health from regular exercise, and 74% said they had more energy after incorporating fitness into their routines. Staying active is an effective way to combat both physical and emotional challenges, offering a sense of achievement, independence, and improved overall wellbeing.

Unfortunately, there are barriers that prevent more seniors from getting involved in activities that could help them. While physical limitations or health conditions were the biggest reason given (44%), and 23% were also concerned about injuries or falling, so were limited motivation and low energy levels (24%). Interestingly, there is also a belief among some that it’s “too late” to start being active, with almost 1 in 10 believing this. 

However, our research also demonstrated how a third of over-60s say they are either “more active” or “just as active” as they were in their 40s and 50s, with that number rising for those aged between 60 and 64 (46%). While 10% have loved participating in sport but have had to retire due to injury, and 14% have been consistently active during their lives, almost 1 in 20 (4%) did also say they discovered a love for sports after turning 40, showing how fitness can be a mid-life awakening.

After suffering a brain injury, 62-year-old Zarria Phillips from Bath joined the Healthwise scheme at Bath Sports and Leisure Centre to improve her mobility and independence. With support from swim instructor David Blake, Zarria can now swim a length of the pool unaided. Zarria continues to attend weekly, determined to build stamina and enhance her quality of life.

“Swimming has increased my mobility and independence,” she shares. “It’s been challenging, but I feel so much better after each session. Dave is patient and understanding, and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved so far.”

For those over-60s who are keeping active, we asked what they would prefer to be referred to, with one in five choosing the title of “Active Elders” with a further 14% calling for no age-related reference, and label them just an athlete like any other. This demonstrates the evolving mindset around aging and physical activity, with many seniors challenging the stereotypes and redefining what it means to be active in later life.

With the rising cost of living and winter fuel allowance cuts, many seniors are also turning to fitness not only for health reasons but also to stay warm without increasing their energy bills. One in five seniors (20%) said they plan to exercise this winter just to keep warm, while 21% are opting for outdoor activities such as walking and hiking to avoid using heating.

Financial barriers are significant, with 22% of seniors citing affordability as the biggest obstacle to staying active. Despite these challenges, many seniors remain committed to their fitness, with walking being the most popular activity. A remarkable 31% of seniors walk or hike daily, and 65% walk at least twice a week. Beyond walking, 11% of seniors hit the gym 2-3 times a week, and 9% regularly cycle, showing how varied and consistent their routines are.

As we can see, staying active in later life offers immense benefits for physical, mental, and social health. From managing chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes to reducing loneliness and staying connected to the community, regular exercise is vital for the over-60s. If you’re keen to get started in a new sport or activity, or know someone who might benefit from it, make sure you check out what exciting activities are available at your local centre. From fitness classes and dance classes through to tennis and swimming lessons, there’s an activity for everyone, with many specifically made for seniors (or “elder athletes”)!