Staying active in later life: movement and balance in a care home

Health & daily life · 3 min read · Last updated 2 November 2026

Moving every day helps older people keep their independence, and it can lower the risk of falls. Activity does not have to mean exercise classes: for many people it is walking, dancing, gardening or helping with household tasks. This guide uses World Health Organization (WHO) advice to explain what is recommended and what to look for in a care home. It is general information, not medical advice.

What the WHO recommends

The WHO says the main recommendations for adults and older adults are the same:

  • At least 150 minutes of moderately intense physical activity each week, or at least 75 minutes of vigorous activity, or an equivalent mix.
  • Bouts of activity should last at least 10 minutes.
  • Moderate examples include brisk walking, dancing and household chores. Vigorous examples include running, fast cycling and fast swimming. What counts as moderate or vigorous depends on the person's fitness.
  • Older adults with poor mobility should do activity to improve balance and prevent falls on three or more days a week.
  • Older adults who cannot reach the recommended amount should be as active as their abilities and conditions allow.

Why movement matters in a care home

Balance and strength work is one of the practical ways to reduce falls: NI Direct says a GP may suggest exercises or more activity to build strength and balance. See preventing falls in older age. Because the WHO counts everyday activity such as household chores, a home where residents are encouraged to help with simple tasks, walk to meals and go outside can support activity even for people who dislike formal exercise.

In hot Mediterranean summers, outdoor activity is best in the cooler parts of the day. See staying safe in hot weather.

What to ask a care home

These are our suggested questions, based on the WHO advice above:

  • What activities are offered each day, and who leads them?
  • Is there anything to help residents with poor mobility improve their balance, and how often?
  • Are residents encouraged to walk, use the garden and join in household tasks?
  • Is there enough staff time to help residents who need support to move?
  • Can physiotherapy or occupational therapy be arranged, and is it included in the fee?
  • How do you adapt activities for residents with dementia or limited mobility?

Also notice what residents are doing on your visit. Are people sitting in front of a television all day, or is there movement and conversation? Our visit checklist lists other things to look for.

Frequently asked questions

How much activity do older adults need?

According to the WHO, the main recommendations for adults and older adults are the same: at least 150 minutes of moderately intense activity a week, or at least 75 minutes of vigorous activity, or an equivalent mix, in bouts of at least 10 minutes.

What if my relative can barely walk?

The WHO says older adults who cannot reach the recommended amount should be as active as their abilities and conditions allow. Those with poor mobility should do activity to improve balance on three or more days a week. Ask a doctor or physiotherapist for suitable exercises.

Do household tasks count as activity?

Yes. The WHO lists household chores among its examples of moderately intense activity, alongside brisk walking and dancing.

Sources and further reading

This guide is general information only, compiled from the public sources listed above as of the date shown. It is not legal, medical, tax, financial or care advice, and we cannot guarantee that it is complete, accurate or up to date. Rules, thresholds and prices change and differ by country and region, and some sources describe other countries' rules as examples. Check details with the authorities and care homes named, and take professional advice for your own situation before you act. If you spot an error, please email [email protected] and we will correct it.