Embrace active ageing – Why life after 60 could be your most active yet
Post on 1st April 2025
As we welcome longer, brighter days, there’s never been a better time to reset our activity goals and step outside from the cold, dark days of winter. And we shouldn’t let age be a barrier to ‘active ageing’.
In fact, according to fascinating new customer research from Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care, those in their 60s and beyond are not slowing down – they’re speeding up!
With over 85 years of expertise as a leading eye and hearing care specialist in the UK, Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care surveyed almost 700 of its customers aged 60+ about ‘Active Ageing’ and the results were eye opening.
If you’ve been assuming that hitting your 60s means a gradual retreat from an active lifestyle, think again. A remarkable 75% of people over 60 report having more freedom to be active compared to when they were in their 40s. An impressive 40% say they’re actually more active now than they were two decades ago. Walking tops the list as the favourite fitness activity, embraced by 86% of respondents.
These statistics challenge the common perception that activity levels naturally decline with age. Instead, they suggest that for many, the post-retirement years offer new opportunities for physical exercise and community participation.
Proactive approach to health in later years
The survey also found that 94% of respondents are proactive about managing their healthcare. Additionally, 65% specifically describe themselves as ‘proactive’ when it comes to scheduling check-ups and addressing health concerns promptly. Almost everyone (97%) include regular eye tests in their preventive health measures, while 63% regularly get their hearing checked.
Claire Hyde from Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care comments: “Our research clearly shows that life in your 60s, 70s and beyond can be a time of increased activity and community engagement. Despite being the fittest, there are some things that just deteriorate with age – eyesight and hearing – but it’s never been easier to access solutions on the high street.”
Why community engagement matters
The data shows that staying active isn’t just about physical fitness. Many older adults are deeply engaged in their communities, with 43% volunteering their time through various activities. This social connection is just as vital to wellbeing as physical exercise.
“Being part of the community is so important, especially as we get older and start to lose partners, friends and family as a natural part of the cycle of life. Having those social ties is good for our mental health and keeps us active and motivated,” adds Claire Hyde.
The importance of vision and hearing for active ageing
As we embrace increased activity, maintaining optimal vision and hearing becomes even more important. Whether you’re joining a walking group, taking up a new hobby, or volunteering in your community, being able to see and hear clearly enhances these experiences significantly.
“As days get longer and brighter, it’s the perfect time to make sure your vision and hearing are at their best so you can fully participate in all the activities you enjoy,” says Claire Hyde.
Regular check-ups with trusted professionals can ensure you don’t miss out on life’s moments, big or small. If you have any concerns about your eye health, your local Scrivens branch is here to offer help and advice.
If you found this blog useful, you may also be interested in reading why you are never too young to love your hearing.
View our infographic here.