Recently, there’s been a lot of press coverage over reports that suggest loneliness in the UK is on the rise. Figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal that 2.5 million people aged between 46 and 64 now live alone in the UK, almost a million more than two decades ago, and 2.2 million people over the age of 75 now find themselves living alone – nearly half a million more than in 1996.

(Image source: bbc.co.uk)

The effects of loneliness in older people can be very serious indeed. According to Age UK, people with a high degree of loneliness – characterised by the NHS as the feeling of being alone or isolated – are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s as people with a low degree of loneliness. In addition, it’s been found that deficiencies in social relationships are associated with an increased risk of developing coronary heart disease and stroke.

This is partly because loneliness is linked with psychological problems – such as alcohol and drug abuse, eating disorders, and depression – and also because loneliness can compound other ailments a person may be suffering from. Indeed, according to figures published in the Independent, analysis of 300,000 people in 148 studies found that loneliness is associated with a 50% in mortality from any cause. It seems that loneliness has a weakening effect on the body, making illnesses harder to cope with and recover from.

Age UK cites figures which suggest that loneliness can increase the risk of premature death by up to a quarter, meaning loneliness can be as harmful to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

The ways in which loneliness and social isolation can affect physical health are illustrated in the following diagram.

(Image source: ageuk.org)

For older people, one of the very best ways to combat loneliness – not to mention the many health risks associated with inactivity – is to join a group exercise class.

Group exercise classes – such as those offered by FLexercise, Medau, and the Keep Fit Association – offer fantastic social inclusion opportunities, health benefits, and psychological support for participants of all ages, and it’s all done with encouragement and enthusiasm.

(Video source: youtube.com)

Keeping fit is of course vital for good health in older age. But the great thing about exercising in a group is that you’re not alone while you’re doing it. Meeting up regularly with a whole bunch of like-minded people is a great way to stay healthy in older age – both physically and mentally. Group exercise classes are a wonderful place to meet people, make friends, and have a whole lot of fun moving your body to some funky tunes from the glory days.

The truth is that group exercise classes are as much about community and social occasions as they are about working out. Many group exercise participants organise get-togethers with their fellow class members outside of group exercise sessions, extending their opportunities to socialise and improve their overall sense of health, happiness and well-being.

“I love Medau and what it does for you – one always feels good afterwards,” said one Medau participant. “It uses all of the muscles all of the time. It helps people to stay mobile, and the social aspect is very important for people who live on their own. One lady in my class lost her sister and her mother within a month. The people in my class were very supportive, and coming to class each week has really helped her cope. Medau brings people together not only for exercise but for social contact. Meeting and making new friends can help alleviate loneliness, giving many a purpose to leave the house each week and get themselves fit and supple as well. Our group has many long-standing members and is aimed at the over 50s with some who are over 80.”

To find out more about Medau, FLexercise and KFA and how you can get involved, click on the pictures below.