Physical activity rates have increased among older adults across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Sport England's Active Lives Survey Data has shown that adults over the age of 55 in both counties have become more active since the survey first began.

The data reveals an increase in older adults doing at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week, from 52.25 per cent in November 2015-2016, to 57.61 per cent in November 2022-2023.

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Herefordshire saw a rise from 52.1 per cent to 57.2 per cent, while Worcestershire jumped from 52.4 per cent to 58.02 per cent.

This comes as part of a broader effort to promote positive ageing during Positive Ageing Week (Monday, September 30 to Sunday, October 6), a global initiative celebrating older people.

Regular exercise, particularly strength-building activities, can play an important role in maintaining health as people get older, helping to reduce the risk of frailty, prevent falls, ease arthritis pain, improve sleep, and boost both mood and memory.

The NHS recommends that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, along with two sessions focused on strength and balance.

Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire have teamed up with Herefordshire Council and Worcestershire County Council to raise awareness about the benefits of staying active later in life.

Throughout Positive Ageing Week, the organisations will be sharing tips, guidance, and resources across social media to help residents stay fit and independent as they age.

Dr Lisa McNally, director of public health for Worcestershire County Council, and Cate Carmichael, director of public health for Herefordshire Council, said: "It’s incredibly encouraging to see that more people are staying active in later life, as highlighted by this survey from Sport England.

"Maintaining physical activity is vital for everyone, but it becomes especially important as we age.

"Resistance exercises, in particular, play a key role in strengthening our arms, legs, and improving our balance, which are essential for our overall health and wellbeing."

Stephen Brewster, Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire CEO, said: "Encouraging healthy and active lifestyles for all across the county is so important in combating the effects of frailty."

For more information visit the Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire website (https://www.activehw.co.uk/healthy-ageing).