3 minute read
The Wellness Years
Later life was traditionally a time to slow down –but lifestyles are changing.
People are becoming grandparents or retiring later and – according to the Office of National Statistics – living longer, healthier lives. Taking up a new hobby is a great way to keep us healthy as we age, especially if it helps us include exercise into our daily routine.
Fifteen years ago, Bob Taylor, 68, from Earlestown hardly used his bike - now he cycles up to 100 miles a week. In 2009 he was diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat, which had left him feeling dizzy and short of breath. “I was only 53, I wasn’t going to let this health issue make me feel old and ‘past it’.” His brother, a keen cyclist, suggested he give it a go and he’s never looked back.
“It’s low impact so it doesn’t put pressure on your joints and it’s a fantastic cardio exercise if you can include a few uphill climbs on your route. I’m nearly 70 but I don’t think I’ve ever been fitter – even after my heart trouble.”
Daniel Melling, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator for Mersey Care, says, “Being active every day helps us stay healthy into old age. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, swimming and dancing will help keep your heart and lungs fit. Build up to two and a half hours per week. Lifting weights, carrying heavy shopping bags or even digging in the garden strengthens your muscles and bones. Do these twice per week to stay strong.”
Thomas Yates is a professor in physical activity, sedentary behaviour and health at the University of Leicester who studies the impact of lifestyle on ageing.
He told The Guardian, “It’s never too late to start cycling or any form of exercise. People who become more active in midlife or older age get tremendous benefits when it comes to longevity and preventing ill effects of ageing.” His study also discovered that even introducing a brisk daily walk can reduce your biological age by up to 15 years. “Changing a 14 minute daily stroll into a seven minute brisk walk can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, so we should all pick up the pace a bit.”
Speak to a GP first if you have not exercised for some time, or if you have medical conditions or concerns.
Simple ways to get more active
Start with five to ten minutes a day and your fitness will improve.
• Park further away from the shops or work or get off the bus a stop early
• Walk around on the phone instead of sitting looked back.
• Get up every 30 minutes when watching television.
