The benefits of physical activity in older age are well documented.

This is why Re-engage is opening more groups where older people can socialise and engage in gentle exercise programmes. 

Research has consistently shown that regular, gentle physical activity is safe for most older people and helps reduce the risk of many long-term conditions including cardiovascular disease, obesity, osteoporosis and dementia.

In fact, Public Health England declares: “If physical activity were a drug, we would refer to it as a miracle cure due to the great many illnesses it can prevent and help treat.”

It’s estimated that by 2043 the number of people aged 65 plus in England will have increased by one-third to around 4 million. As our population ages and medical advances help us live longer, extra strain on the economy and healthcare systems is inevitable. This is just one of the reasons why it is important to retain a healthy lifestyle that includes a combination of regular physical, mental and social activity, as we age.

We launched our activity groups in 2022 in Wales, followed by West Yorkshire, Birmingham and the South West of England. New three-year funding will enable us to expand into the Scottish Borders, Manchester and London. Next year will see groups introduced in Liverpool, and finally, the service will have a nationwide presence. By the end of 2024 there will be around 50 groups, providing activities such as chair yoga, tai-chi and indoor curling, in community centres, church halls and sports centres across the UK.

One activity group attendee said: "I have arthritis everywhere and need new knees and hips, but the waiting list is around five years. This means daily pain and a need to keep mobile even if it hurts. I attend a weekly group for armchair exercise and the Re-engage chair yoga fortnightly. It helps my mobility and stops me feeling miserable."

Tom Oakes, head of growth at Re-engage, said: “The impact of loneliness can be brutal on older people who live on their own so we’re really pleased to be working with the support of our funders to drive this initiative. The activity groups will give older people something to break up their day, help them feel more connected to other people in similar circumstances, and give their health and wellbeing a welcome boost.”