Home improvement retailers can expect a new influx of mature customers after the publication of research that finds DIY and gardening is good for you - possibly adding years to older people's lives.
The British Journal of Sports Medicine reports that the cardiovascular health of around 4,000 60-year-olds in Stockholm was tracked for over 12 years. At the start of the study, each participant's dietary, smoking and drinking habits were noted, and they were also asked how often they did everyday physical activities such as DIY and gardening. They were also asked how often they did formal exercise.

The researchers found that people who did the most everyday activity had a 27% lower risk of a heart attack or stroke and a 30% reduced risk of death from all causes, compared with those doing the least. And this was irrespective of how much regular formal exercise was done as well.

The reason is that sitting down reduces the metabolic rate, while standing and gentle physical activities such as DIY and gardening increase it.

The report's authors also say that such everyday activities are particularly good for older people because they often find it difficult to achieve recommended exercise intensity levels.