This project considers YouGov survey data highlighting the detrimental impact of the pandemic on physical activity levels of older adults. Given the role of physical activity in maintaining health, we have an impending physical resilience crisis affecting many older adults.
The new report proposes a big, bold programme to motivate and encourage older adults by providing tailored advice and guidance on how to improve health post pandemic. Through a combination of organised local groups supported by online and televised support, the National Post Pandemic Resilience Programme would focus specifically on addressing the short and long term challenges resulting from the pandemic and lockdowns. The aim is to not only return older people to their pre-pandemic physical activity levels, but encourage long term greater levels of activity.
Questions discussed:
- What short and long term challenges have lockdowns presented for older people’s health?
- How can we motivate older adults to increase physical activity levels?
- From a physiological perspective, what are the most effective public health interventions?
- How do we join up different interventions to present a cohesive programme?
