Our very own Mayfield Belles have become a brilliant example of how staying active can bring joy, confidence and community spirit at any age. Four members of our cheerleading group of homeowners at Mayfield Watford retirement village, today featured LIVE on BBC Breakfast, and again on BBC London this evening. As highlighted on Mayfield Villages’ LinkedIn page, we couldn't be prouder of these fabulous women and the light they are shining on positive ageing.
Image: The Mayfield Belles on the BBC, filmed at Mayfield Watford
Image: The Mayfield Belles on the BBC, filmed at Mayfield Watford
The Mayfield Belles on the BBC today
We’re thrilled to see our wonderful Mayfield Belles featured on BBC Breakfast this morning, championing the importance of fitness and staying active later in life.
At Mayfield Villages, we see every day the incredible impact that movement, community and confidence can have on wellbeing - not just physically, but socially and mentally too.
The Mayfield Belles are a brilliant example of how later life can remain vibrant, energetic and full of opportunity, and we couldn’t be prouder to see them representing the village on a national platform.
A huge congratulations to everyone involved for bringing such warmth and positivity to the screen.
If you’d like to see the Belles in action, the interview starts at approximately 7:47am on iPlayer.
Why Staying Active in Later Life Matters More Than Ever
Growing older doesn’t necessarily mean giving up the things we enjoy. In fact, quite the opposite. Retirement can be one of the most rewarding and fulfilling stages of life, and provides the time to embark on new hobbies and interests. Staying active, both physically and socially, plays a vital role in maintaining our health, confidence and independence as we age.
Research shows that regular activity in later life can help improve mobility, strengthen muscles and reduce the risk of long-term health conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis and diabetes. It also has a significant impact on mental wellbeing, helping to reduce anxiety, combat loneliness and boost overall happiness. The BBC today featured experts discussing the overwhelming benefits of staying active in retirement and how physical activity can in some cases be as beneficial as medicine.
Our ageing population
According to Audley Villages’ latest retirement statistics, there are now approximately 11 million people aged 65 and above in the UK, accounting for around 16% of the population. By 2041, that number is expected to rise even further as people continue to live longer lives.
The good news is that later life today looks very different from previous generations. Retirement is increasingly being viewed as an opportunity to try new experiences, build friendships and focus on wellbeing.
Inspired by the film Poms, this fabulous group of up to 20 women aged between 70 and 87 rehearse weekly, perform together and encourage others to challenge stereotypes around ageing. Their story demonstrates that staying active is not about intense workouts or competition, it’s about connection, laughter and trying something new.
Integrated retirement communities like Mayfield Villages are designed to make this lifestyle easier to embrace. Homeowners here have access to a swimming pool, fully equipped gym, fitness classes, social clubs and wellness spaces, all helping to support an active and sociable lifestyle.
Activity at Mayfield Watford comes in many forms; from fitness sessions and swimming to coffee mornings, hobby clubs and community events. The focus is not on “slowing down”, but on helping people continue to live independently while enjoying new opportunities and meaningful friendships.
Audley Villages recently reported that living in an integrated retirement community can lead to a 75% increase in exercise, while anxiety levels can decrease by almost a quarter (24%). These statistics highlight just how powerful active, community-focused living can be for overall health and fitness.
Social connection is equally important. Audley’s research found that nearly two-fifths (38%) of people aged over 55 experienced loneliness within a 12-month period. Staying socially engaged through clubs, classes and shared experiences can therefore have a profound effect on emotional wellbeing and quality of life.
The inspiring women of the Mayfield Belles perfectly capture this message. Their enthusiasm, teamwork and positivity prove that it is never too late to start something new, stay active and enjoy life to the fullest.
Because later life shouldn’t be about limitations - it should be about possibilities.
