Researchers in Norway recently published a study investigating how physical activity and sedentary behavior relate to the risk of premature death. The team pooled data from eight prior studies conducted in Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States, encompassing 36,383 participants aged 40 and older (mean age 62.6). These participants were followed for an average of 5.8 years.
Every study included in the analysis used wearable accelerometers to objectively measure participants’ activity. These devices capture total movement and intensity, categorizing activity as light, moderate, or vigorous. Light activities include tasks such as folding laundry or weeding a garden. Moderate activities might be a brisk walk or mowing the lawn, while vigorous activities include running or weightlifting.
After analyzing the combined data, the researchers found that higher overall physical activity, regardless of intensity, and reduced sedentary time were both strongly associated with lower risk of premature death among middle-aged and older adults. In the pooled analysis, people who spent the most time sedentary had substantially higher mortality risk compared with those who were most active.
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Get moving!
Moving regularly benefits both body and mind. Regular physical activity boosts energy, reduces stress, improves sleep, and lowers the risk of many chronic diseases. Because many physiological benefits begin soon after exercise, even brief bouts of activity can improve wellbeing.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends adults accumulate at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity activity, or an equivalent mix. In addition, adults should perform muscle-strengthening activities for all major muscle groups on two or more days per week. Older adults should also include balance training as part of their routine.
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Increased wellbeing for seniors
Previous research has shown that residents of retirement communities—such as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), also called life plan communities—often report higher levels of happiness, health, and overall wellbeing compared with peers who stay in their current homes.
Multiple factors contribute to this wellbeing gap. Residents of retirement communities are typically more engaged in social activities, try new experiences, dine with others, and spend more time with friends and family. They also take part in more exercise and organized activities. In some studies, residents were two to five times more likely to participate in these activities compared with non-residents.
It remains unclear whether living in a retirement community directly causes improved wellbeing or whether healthier, more active people are more likely to move into these communities. Regardless, the social and activity-focused lifestyle common in many retirement communities supports better health and potentially greater longevity.
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Promoting healthy lifestyles at a CCRC
CCRCs typically provide many opportunities for residents to stay active. Most have on-site fitness centers that offer low-impact aerobics, yoga, and other classes tailored to older adults. These centers are often staffed by qualified fitness professionals who guide safe exercise and help residents maintain consistent routines.
Swimming is a low-impact option widely available at many CCRCs, with some communities offering aqua-aerobics or aqua-jogging classes. Walking paths and nature trails on campus invite residents to walk, hike, or bike outdoors. Some communities are introducing creative fitness options—paddle-boarding for balance and strength, Zumba or kickboxing classes, and even adult playgrounds—to keep exercise engaging and social.
With a variety of accessible and enjoyable options, staying physically active at a CCRC can be both easy and fun, supporting long-term health and wellbeing.
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