FIT OVER 50 – HOW CHOOSING THE RIGHT LOCATION CAN IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

By Ben Smith of RoyaleLife

Ben Smith

We have all heard of the old phrase “life begins at 40” – but these days, it’s the half-century mark that heralds the start of our best years thanks to a number of factors that may surprise you.

With the kids having flown the nest, finances being less strained and the stress of the rat race firmly behind us, many people begin to reap the health benefits of a happier and easier-paced lifestyle age 50 and beyond. But did you know that where you live has a big impact on how you feel? When choosing a home to see ourselves into retirement, it’s important to consider the right location to keep health in check and the second half of life at its most fulfilling. 

At RoyaleLife, the UK’s number one bungalow provider, this is one of the reasons why we ensure that our developments are in some of the country’s best locations. From breathing in the crisp sea air to discovering stunning rural landscapes, there is something to benefit a range of lifestyles. 

But, for many, it is more than just a change for more picturesque scenery as there is also research to show that there is a direct relationship between our own mental and physical wellness and the time we spend outdoors.

Life’s a beach

Widemouth Bay

A study from the University of Exeter revealed that those living within five kilometres of the sea experienced fewer mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. 

In an interview with the Metro newspaper, Dr. Natasha Bijlani, consultant psychiatrist at the Priory’s Roehampton Hospital, London, said that this mental wellbeing was due to the improvement of sleep and that sea air was an aid for improved sleep quality because “in general it is cleaner and fresher air, with higher levels of oxygen.” She also added that “The sound of waves can be very soothing to the brain. If you relax, this can help clear the mind, lower stress levels and strengthen your immune system.” 

The benefits of the seaside don’t just stop with the sea air. Walking along the beach is a great soother for stressed minds, but it can also give your physical health a boost too. 

Meadowlands Court

In fact, we often see a number of our residents taking in the sea air at Widemouth Bay, just a three-minute drive from RoyaleLife’s Meadowlands Court development in Bude. We’ve also seen the slightly braver locals of Bude take on sea-swimming – which burns on average up to 340 calories per hour. For those with a more adventurous streak, there are a number of surfers of all ages who enjoy the waves down on the beach. Widemouth Bay’s very own Freewave Surf Academy has beginners lessons – what perfect opportunity than your retirement to try something new and get fit in the process?

For those who prefer all hands-on deck, another RoyaleLife development, Royale Heights, is just a 10-minute drive away from the picturesque Poole Harbour making it ideal for boating enthusiasts who wish to while away a sunny afternoon. Further along the coast in Milford-in-Sea you will find our stunning development Solent Grange. Take a stroll along the shingle beach, with its colourful beach huts and breath-taking cliff-top walks offering views across the Solent and nearby Lymington. Take in the splendid sight of the Needles on the Isle of Wight and sailing boats as far as the eye can see. While on the Kent Coast, those new to the sailing scene can sign up for lessons at Herne Bay Sailing Club – just five minutes away from RoyaleLife’s flagship development, Reculver Court. 

Escape to the Country

South Downs National Park

But it’s not just water-lovers that can reap the health benefits of choosing the right location. Those who prefer to have their feet firmly on the ground can seek adventure in one of the UK’s stunning countryside locations. And, with 46.6%* of England’s rural population aged over 50, you will be in great company.

Such as the residents at RoyaleLife’s Oakwood Court in Bordon. Just a stone’s throw away from the breath-taking South Downs National Park, residents can enjoy the slower pace of life and the health benefits of countryside living such as cleaner air, less traffic pollution and plenty of walks among rolling hills and winding riverbanks. 

Speaking of walking, an hour’s rambling could burn up to 258 calories per hour and provides a great opportunity to clear your mind, get your heart rate up and in the long-term, lower your risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers.

Deer’s Court

For those who want the best of both worlds, our developments in and around the majestic New Forest are not to be missed. With Deer’s Court in Wimbourne, New Forest Glades in Christchurch, and Silver Mists in St Leonards each with their own character and not to be missed.

In the UK we are spoilt for choice when it comes to the countryside and the sea. As well as an improved lifestyle in more relaxing surroundings, there are physical and mental wellbeing aspects to be had as well. What better reason could you need for a new start, get fit in your fifties and get yourself on the road to improved wellbeing?

If you would like to come and see more for yourself, and what RoyaleLife developments have to offer, why not contact us for more information on 01945 223 855 or visit royalelife.com