Reacting to the launch of the Government's 'Be Active, Be Healthy' physical activity strategy, which aims to encourage people of all ages to be more active, Pamela Holmes, Head of Healthy Ageing at Help the Aged, says:

'Keeping fit and active helps to prevent the onset of ill-health and the development of diseases, so the Government's focus on encouraging people of all ages, including older people, to be more active is a positive step. The plan rightly recognises the importance of having a range of options - different activities suit different people, not everyone wants to or can afford to go to the gym.  

'Regular, moderate exercise makes physical and economic sense – as well as improving general health and well-being, it can result in significant cost savings for the NHS.  

'While the intentions in the Government’s physical activity strategy are clear, it’s imperative that local health services have the correct tools in place to take the plan forward – that way people of all ages can become more fit and active.'