Ellie Johnson
Policy Officer, Care England
As individuals can expect to live longer in the UK1, supporting healthy ageing has never been more important.
Staying active in later life isn’t just about maintaining physical health; it plays a vital role in mental and emotional wellbeing.
Movement boosts health and connection
Regular exercise can help older adults preserve mobility, boost confidence and maintain independence. It also helps prevent falls, which cost the NHS over £2.3 billion annually.2 Just as importantly, group exercise can provide older adults with a powerful sense of connection, helping to reduce the loneliness and isolation that many face.
There are numerous benefits to staying active as we age, from improved mobility to increased independence and reduced risk of injury. Yet, the emotional benefits are equally important, as physical activity triggers the release of positive endorphins, which contributes to a more positive outlook, improved mental health and better overall quality of life, contributing to a sense of purpose, joy and community.
Regular exercise can help older
adults preserve mobility, boost
confidence and maintain independence.
Why connection is key to healthy ageing
Loneliness remains a serious concern for many older people, due to a lack of social connection or poor health, often leading to depression and cognitive decline.3 Building meaningful social connections can help counter this, particularly in care home settings. Initiatives, like ‘Be Great Fitness,’ are great examples of how movement and community can come together. By delivering group fitness sessions in care homes, they create opportunities not just for physical activity but social engagement.
In many care settings, tailored movement sessions have become a powerful tool for enhancing the lives of older people. These activities offer more than physical benefits; they foster a sense of community and shared experience. Combining purposeful movement with meaningful social engagement helps create a sense of belonging that is essential to healthy ageing.
Healthy ageing is about more than just physical fitness; it’s about staying connected, confident and engaged. With the right support, later life can be a time of purpose and lasting wellbeing.
[1] BBC News. 2025. UK men and women can expect to live longer, data show – BBC News (UK men and women can expect to live longer, data show – BBC News)
[2] NHS South Central Ambulance Service. 2025. 3,000 falls and frailty 999 calls every month.
[3] Age UK. 2024. Age UK’s new report shows ‘you are not alone in feeling lonely’.
