News

The British Journal of Sports Medicine has released analysis of 39 studies showing that exercising for at least 45 minutes several times a week can boost brain power in the over-50s.

The research says that resistance and aerobic training such as swimming, cycling and jogging are important to keeping the mind sharp.

Saga’s own research¹ over the last 18 months shows that the retired generation are ahead of the game with over half (56%) saying they walk more than they did when they were working, one in eight (12%) saying they swim more, and one in ten cycling more.

The over 50s also said that the health benefits were the most important reason (85%) to exercise¹ ahead of having fun (41%) or simply to socialise (35%).

Lisa Harris, head of communications for Saga Healthcare commented:

“We know that keeping a sharp mind in retirement is important for the over 50s and it’s clear they are aware that keeping healthy will help them achieve this. In fact, our research has shown that the loss of cognitive function through diseases such as dementia was a very real concern for them citing this as the most feared illness in older age² (43%) ahead of cancer (30%) or a stroke (12%).

“The majority of over 50s already lead very active lives so they will be encouraged to learn that there are mental as well as physical health benefits to regular exercise that will allow them to keep doing the things they enjoy.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

¹ Populus interviewed 9,116 Saga respondents, all aged 50+, online between 19 and 26 January 2016. Populus is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules; for more information see www.populus.co.uk

² Populus interviewed 9,539 Saga respondents, all aged 50+, online between 16 and 22 February 2016. Populus is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules; for more information see www.populus.co.uk

Saga Healthcare is designed to help older people remain independent but to still get just the support they need – whether that’s a trip to the shops, some help around the home, help with getting washed and dressed, or specialist healthcare and night-time assistance.