Published on: Oct 14, 2025
Researchers at the University of Surrey have found that how individuals perceive ageing—whether as a period of growth or decline—plays a significant role in their levels of physical activity.
The study, published in Healthcare, analysed data from 1,699 UK residents aged 50 and over. It revealed that those with a positive view of ageing were more likely to engage in vigorous physical activity. Notably, even individuals with multiple non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes or cardiovascular conditions, were more likely to remain active if they held optimistic attitudes towards ageing.
Our research suggests that a positive outlook on ageing can serve as a psychological buffer, helping people stay active despite health challenges, said Professor Victoria Tischler, co-author and Professor of Behavioural Science at the University of Surrey. Addressing beliefs about ageing may be just as crucial as addressing physical health when designing public health strategies to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle.
The researchers recommend that public health campaigns and interventions encourage older adults to maintain a positive attitude towards physical activity, even when facing illness or long-term conditions. Promoting positive perceptions of ageing, they argue, can enhance not only health outcomes but also quality of life for older individuals.
By helping older adults reframe ageing not as a period of inevitable decline, but as a stage where an active and engaged life is still possible, we aim to foster a society where an active later life is expected, even in the presence of health challenges, added Dr Serena Sabatini, lead author and visiting lecturer at the University of Surrey.
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