Physical activity is good for everyone. For older people, there are many physical and emotional benefits. That’s why we make keeping active a priority in Care UK care homes. Our teams support residents to stay physically and mentally fit by helping them safely engage in activities that are personalised to their needs, abilities and wishes.

Why is it important to stay active as you age?

Keeping physically active not only helps to prevent diseases, like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and cancers, but it’s also a great way to lift our spirits. Gentle exercise and getting outdoors reduces loneliness, and many people find that spending time in nature lowers stress, anxiety and depression.

Maintaining strength and mobility through physical activity also helps older people enjoy living independently for longer. Care UK teams promote positive risk-taking in our homes, and we find that when residents help out with daily tasks, they feel a sense of achievement and purpose.

Keeping active has social benefits too, and this supports residents’ overall wellbeing. Whether it’s chatting with a friend while weeding in the garden or joining in with a walking group, activities help to give people a sense of belonging.

From armchair exercises and dancing to gentle stretching and trips out, our Lifestyle teams build physical activities into their weekly activity plans to help residents keep fit and well. At Winchcombe Place and Field Lodge, we’ve even partnered with the British Gymnastic Programme for Love to Move, age and dementia-friendly seated exercises that have transformed the lives of people living with dementia.

If you or a loved one are wondering how you can stay active as you age, read our expert advice on keeping fit in later life.