People in the UK are living longer than ever before. In fact, the number of people aged 65 and over has increased by almost 50%, and there are nearly three times as many people aged 85 and over as there were 40 years ago.

With this welcome increase in life expectancy comes a new focus: how to stay healthy, active and independent as we age. Healthy Ageing Month is the perfect reminder to invest in the small daily habits that can make a big difference to our energy, mobility and quality of life.

Here are some simple ways to help you age well and stay healthy every day:

Move More, Feel Better

Staying active is one of the most powerful things you can do to support your health as you age. Regular movement helps maintain strength, balance and flexibility – all key to staying independent and enjoying everyday life. Low-impact exercises that focus on stretching, breathing and mobility are gentle on the joints while keeping the body active. Activities like dancing, yoga, Pilates or swimming can help enhance joint range of motion and overall mobility.

For best results, aim to stay active every day. Strength exercises, such as using resistance bands or bodyweight moves, can support the muscles around your joints, helping to protect them from strain. Warming up before activity and stretching afterwards can also reduce stiffness and help you get the most out of your workouts.

Combining flexibility, balance and strength exercises is the key to staying active and able to enjoy life to the full.

Mind, Mood and Social Connection

A healthier life isn’t just about moving your body – it’s also about looking after your mind. Physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones, which can ease stress, lift your mood and improve sleep.

Equally important is the social side of staying active. Walking with a friend, joining a group exercise class, or taking part in community activities provides opportunities to connect with others. Loneliness is one of the biggest challenges many older adults face, and strong social connections can reduce the risk of depression and boost resilience.

Staying active can be even more enjoyable when it’s shared with others. For a fun, social way to move, check out your local Move It or Lose It class – sessions are designed for older adults of all abilities and provide a friendly, supportive environment.

Nourish Your Body

Alongside movement, a nutrient-rich diet plays a vital role in supporting long-term health and joint function.

Consider incorporating ingredients with natural beneficial properties into your meals. For example, why not try blending antioxidant-rich berries with oats and yoghurt, plus a touch of turmeric and ginger both of which help support joint health, to make a simple, delicious smoothie? It’s a tasty way to start the day!

Support Your Joints from the Inside Out

While exercise, social connection and a balanced diet are all vital, some people may also consider taking a supplement for additional joint support.

GOPO® Joint Health contains specially cultivated, naturally sourced rose-hip (Rosa canina) with a uniquely high level of GOPO®, a galactolipid discovered over 30 years ago in Denmark. GOPO® has been studied in several scientific trials and is retained at the highest possible levels in rose hip thanks to a special patented manufacturing process.

GOPO® Joint Health is also rich in Vitamin C, which is essential for normal collagen formulation, needed by the body for the normal function of bones and cartilage.

Rose-hip may play a valuable role in supporting the maintenance of joints and joint tissues and helps to keep joints healthy and flexible.

Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet and healthy lifestyle.

GOPO® Joint Health is available at Boots, Amazon, Holland & Barrett and independent chemists and retailers nationwide. Visit www.gopo.co.uk for further information.

Small Habits, Big Impact

By combining regular movement, nutrient-rich meals, social connection and daily joint support, you’re giving your body the tools it needs to stay mobile, active and age well – every day.