---

Dept of Health

Answer

Dr. Murrison: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures have been taken to promote (a) physical fitness and (b) healthy eating among the elderly. [153814] Miss Melanie Johnson: Older people are at increased risk of a range of lifestyle-related diseases and conditions. Increased levels of physical activity and healthy eating are particularly valuable in maintaining independent living. Accordingly, the national service framework for older people requires joint action between the National Health Service and councils to ensure that older people have fair access to advice about lifestyle including nutrition and physical activity. The Department, in partnership with the Countryside Agency and Sport England, is launching 10 local exercise action pilots, that will test the effectiveness of different community approaches to increasing levels of physical activity. Five pilots have a community-wide approach and the remainder target specific populations, including younger and older people. The Department is leading the development of a comprehensive food and health action plan, working across Government and with the food industry to establish a coherent and effective programme of activities on nutrition in order to achieve a healthier diet for people in England. The plan will address healthy eating at all stages of life, including older people. Meanwhile, the Food Standards Agency promotes healthy eating for older people with its Eating in Later Life leaflet and relevant content on its website.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

418 c1167W;418 c1184-5W; 153814

Session

2003-04

Subjects

Diets Health Older people Exercise

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk