Medical evidence shows that the benefits of being active as you get older are more than just physical.
For older adults in particular, regular movement helps maintain strength and balance, reduces the risk of falls, supports independence and benefits mental as well as physical health.
Across the Duchy, Active Cornwall coordinates a series of Wellbeing Walks in partnership with Ramblers UK and other local partners which are open to all abilities.
Cabinet Member for Adults, Councillor Jim McKenna, said:
“Earlier this year Cornwall became part of the Network of Age Friendly Communities, and keeping people active is one of our key priorities for ageing well.
“Age-friendly communities work together to help people stay active and more connected, which promotes better health and reduces our need for urgent care and treatment.”
In a 2026 report, Professor Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England recommends that adults, including those over 65, aim for around 150 minutes of moderate activity a week and a brisk walk counts towards it.
Cllr McKenna continued:
“The guidance is clear, some activity is always better than none, and any amount brings benefits over sitting still.”
So small, regular movement rather than intense exercise, is at the heart of this approach.
Cornwall’s free wellbeing walks are led by trained volunteers, open to all abilities, and held everywhere from coast paths to garden estates to town parks.
Kathryn is one of the attendees at the Wellbeing Walk held at Heligan Gardens:
“If I’m feeling down I come, because I know have built these friendship groups up and it really helps lift my spirits.
“We see the animals, we see the plants and every week there is something different going on. The people I’m with, they ask how you are, it’s just good to talk.”
The Global Age-Friendly Cities and Communities programme was developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO)and launched in 2007.
It’s about making things such as community spaces accessible and helping people to stay active and socially engaged as they get older.
Rob Harrison from Active Cornwall says physical activity is important as you get older:
“There are obviously physical benefits of getting out and being active, but also the social element is massively important. You could come to walk on your own, but you go away with friends and have that network and community.”
For more information on the Wellbeing Walks please visit the Active Cornwall website.
And for more on walking and other physical activities that are available for people across Cornwall, please visit the Age Friendly Cornwall website.