A recent study conducted in France reveals that despite 73% of seniors having participated in sports at some point in their lives, only 59% currently engage in regular physical activity [fb595f93]. The study highlights the main reasons for the lack of physical activity among seniors, including a lack of time, health concerns, and a lack of interest. Seniors are considered the most sedentary group in the French population, despite the fact that physical activity is recommended to prevent certain health conditions that seniors are prone to. The study also found that seniors prefer gentle individual sports such as running and gentle gymnastics. However, nearly two-fifths of seniors feel that sports facilities are not adapted for those over 50. The lack of adapted infrastructure and limited awareness of sports initiatives by senior federations are barriers to seniors engaging in physical activity. It is crucial to change mindsets and encourage seniors to prioritize physical activity for their well-being [fb595f93].
A study conducted by the Curtin University in Australia has found that even small amounts of physical activity can have significant survival benefits for advanced-stage lung cancer patients [23943e3d]. Participants with inoperable lung cancer who engaged in 4.6 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day had a 60% reduced risk of mortality compared to less active participants. The findings suggest that encouraging tailored physical activity among patients with inoperable lung cancer could improve their survival outcomes. Larger randomized controlled trials will be conducted to confirm these results and develop personalized interventions to enhance physical activity levels in this specific group of patients [23943e3d].
A recent study conducted by Bangor University and the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology reveals that simply looking at trees can enhance mental health [032abd23]. The study involved 117 urban residents who participated in a 45-minute urban walk while wearing eye-tracking glasses. Focusing on natural elements, particularly trees, was associated with improvements in mental health indicators such as anxiety levels and a sense of well-being. The findings suggest that integrating more natural elements into urban design could significantly improve the mental well-being of city residents. The study also offers insights for mental health professionals, suggesting that guided attention exercises focusing on natural elements could complement traditional treatments for anxiety and depression [032abd23].
The CEO of the Mental Health Foundation discusses the positive effects of physical activity on mental health [4334176d]. Physical activity helps regulate the mind and body, preventing the onset of mental health struggles and aiding in recovery. Mental Health Awareness Week aims to start a national conversation about the benefits of movement for mental health and address the barriers to movement. Research shows that only 25% of people are happy with their level of physical activity. Despite knowing the health benefits of movement, many struggle to incorporate it into their daily lives. Movement has been shown to have positive effects on mental health, including improved mood, reduced anxiety, better memory and concentration, and increased social connectedness. Movement also reduces the risk of long-term physical health conditions, which in turn lowers the risk of poor mental health. The Mental Health Foundation wants to reclaim movement as something for all members of society and address the barriers to movement, especially for those with disabilities, parents, and young people. The organization also emphasizes the importance of kindness and setting realistic goals while being active. They will be engaging people from every community to find their moment for movement and will be advocating for more opportunities for movement in Parliaments across the UK.
In a related discussion on positive ageing, Beth Narain, a 78-year-old Pilates instructor in Hong Kong, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude towards ageing. Narain, who has taught Pilates for 18 years, advocates for quality sleep, healthy eating, and socializing with younger individuals. Studies indicate that a positive outlook on ageing can lower disease risk by 43% and improve rehabilitation outcomes [a4b79d7e]. Harvard professor Ellen Langer supports mindfulness practices to shift perceptions of ageing, while public figures like Martha Stewart and Paulina Porizkova also promote embracing the ageing process. This holistic approach to ageing aligns with the growing recognition of the benefits of physical activity and mental well-being in older adults, reinforcing the need for supportive environments that encourage active lifestyles [a4b79d7e].