Act Now, Age Better

What will your next move be?

We are living longer, and with the right choices, we can also live better!

Ageing is a huge privilege, but one that can come with many challenges. While we can’t prevent ageing, we can take action earlier on in life to help us age in the best way possible. While our genetics influences how we age, our day-to-day choices and habits play a significantly greater role.

As a population, we are living longer than ever before, which is why we’re continuing our Act Now, Age Better: Your Next Move campaign in partnership with Age UK, who provide services for older people across England. 

We’re kicking off our campaign by talking about staying active, and who better to provide advice than GP and health coach Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi who shares some simple, effective ways to add more activity to our lives.

Dr Hussain says:

"Regular movement is one of the most powerful tools you have to protect your future health – a bit like paying into a personal pension plan"

The video below features the wide range of sports and clubs partners in towns and cities across Scotland and nationwide, promoting staying active as we age.

How can increasing activity boost your health as we age? 

Regular movement is one of the best ways to feel better now and protect your future health. Think of it as paying into a physical pension plan; every positive step will be something your future self will be thankful for in later life. Small, consistent changes can have an impact over time, leading to more energy, greater independence, and fewer health concerns in the future. 

Why now?

Spring is the ideal time to start exercising because of longer days, warmer weather and increased sunshine, which can boost our energy and motivation. With the lighter nights upon us, natural sunlight increases serotonin levels, improving mood and allows for an easier transition from winter inactivity

In Scotland, this summer has been dubbed the Summer of Sport with football fever hitting the nation as Scotland qualify for the World Cup for the first time in decades. We also have the Commonwealth Games 2026 taking place in Glasgow, hosting 300 of the world’s best athletes

What sport will you try next?

You don’t need to be a world-class athlete to get started. Whoever you are, and whatever your lifestyle, there’s an activity for you.

Research shows that regular exercise reduces the risk of long-term health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Read more about it in our Health and Wellbeing in Later Life guide.

Taking part in sport can be a fun way to move more – one which helps you stay connected with your community and learn new skills.

Tips for success

Stay consistent

This isn’t going to happen overnight; it will take around 6 months to see the real benefits. Stick with it!

Be active outdoors with a group

Being in nature has benefits, community and movement all at once.

Break up long periods of sitting

Get up, stand, stretch, or use a standing desk to stay mobile.

Find a community

Activities like Parkrun, dancing, walking, cycling and martial arts can be a great way to stay connected to your community and others. Research shows that the quality of our connections influences how well we age.

It’s not all or nothing

Do what you can, when you can. It all adds up.