People in the UK can now expect to live far 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.1

Whilst rising life expectancy is rarely seen as a bad thing, what if those extra years are lived in poor health? Ageing is a well-established risk factor for the onset of chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and dementia.2

Musculoskeletal conditions are also a leading cause of ill health, with an estimated 63% of UK adults aged between 75 and 84 living with a musculoskeletal condition –the highest prevalence rate across all age groups.3

Experts highlight that poor nutrition and physical inactivity are significant risk factors for chronic conditions, including obesity.4 Conversely, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help prevent, delay or alleviate many of these conditions.

To ensure that any additional years are lived joyfully, it has never been more important to take responsibility for our health, prioritising internal well-being. This focus can help prevent physical decline and allow us to live longer, happier lives.

Strong and healthy joints are important as they enable movement and flexibility. They also help your body absorb shock, maintain balance and stability, and protect your bones and other tissues from damage.

One of the main benefits of exercise for your joints is that it can enhance joint mobility and range of motion – essential components for living independently.

Low-impact exercises that focus on breathing, stretching and flexibility are excellent for supporting range of motion and improving mobility. Activities such as swimming, yoga, tai chi, Pilates and water aerobics are great examples of low-impact exercises. Or find your local Move it or Lose it class for joint-friendly, fun exercise. Search our classfinder here. 

In addition to exercise, a well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in supporting joint health. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseed, can promote long-term joint function, while antioxidant-rich foods like berries, nuts and colourful vegetables may help to support healthy joints.

For additional support, a supplement may also help to maintain joint health from the inside out. GOPO® Joint Health contains specially–cultivated, naturally–sourced rose-hip with a uniquely high level of GOPO®.

GOPO®, a key component of rose-hip, was discovered over 20 years ago in Denmark. Long–standing research projects have focused on rose-hip with a high level of GOPO®. *Rose-hip helps maintain healthy and flexible joints.

It is also rich in Vitamin C which contributes to the formation of collagen for the normal function of cartilage. Cartilage is the protective and connective component of joints.

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.

1. 
   Centre for Ageing Better. 2023. State of Ageing 2023. Available at: https://ageing-better.org.uk/our-ageing-population-state-ageing-2023-4. (Accessed: August 2024).
2. British Medical Association. 2024. Growing Older in the UK: A Series of Briefings on Ageing and Health. Available at: https://www.bma.org.uk/what-we-do/population-health/improving-the-health-of-specific-groups/growing-older-in-the-uk-a-series-of-briefings-on-ageing-and-health. (Accessed: August 2024).
3. Statista. 2024. Prevalence of musculoskeletal conditions in the United Kingdom as of 2024, by age. Available at: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1099832/musculoskeletal-conditions-in-the-uk/. (Accessed: August 2024).
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2024. About chronic diseases. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/about/. (Accessed: August 2024).