Act Now, Age Better

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, with the average life expectancy in Scotland now standing at 76.8 years for males and 80.8 years for females*. 

That’s why we’re launching Act Now, Age Better 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:

“10 years ago, I was 26kg heavier, sedentary, highly stressed, and diagnosed with fatty liver disease and high blood pressure. The turning point came when I realised how much my lifestyle was shaping my future - what kind of life would I have at 70 if I continued on that path? I started prioritising physical activity to enhance life, not just as a task to check off.

So, how do we age better in Scotland?

Small, consistent changes can have an impact over time, leading to more energy, greater independence, and fewer health concerns in the future. Just like planning for retirement is a common monthly practice, actively planning your monthly activities, which are beneficial for your health and wellbeing, will pay dividends in the future. 

Physical activity is an investment in your future.

Staying active now increases your chances of living the life you want later. Think of it as paying into your physical pension plan. Read more about it in our Health and Wellbeing in Later Life guide.

Building your fitness, strength, and balance now supports healthy ageing.

Helping you stay independent and mobile for longer can help reduce the likelihood of developing long-term conditions. Age Scotland offers programmes to support strength and balance, learn more about our interactive training, Body Boosting Bingo sessions.

Strength and balance are key to ageing well.

Prioritising strength and balance exercises now helps maintain independence and can prevent falls later. Read more about how to prevent falls.

The more you move, the better!

Every bit of activity counts, from bite-sized movement to longer sessions, and benefits continue to grow.

Your Guide to Keeping Active For Healthier Ageing

The video below is features Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi who explains more about the nationwide campaign and 'debunks' some of the myths about staying active as we age.