The results were revealed in a survey by the Office for National Statistics.
Men and women in Richmond live healthily for longer than anywhere else in the UK, the Office for National Statistics has revealed.
With an average healthy life expectancy (HLE) of 70.3 for men, and 72.1 for women, residents have longer to enjoy life’s riches in this genteel borough.
However, Lambeth’s older population might be looking to up sticks and leave as statistics reveal a HLE of 61.1 for men and 62.3 for women. This is the age at which ill health will start to seriously affect quality of life.
Wandsworth and Croydon are among other South-West London authorities where figures are close to the national average of 63.2 (men) and 64.2 (women).
East London’s Tower Hamlets has the lowest HLE for females (54.1), with the lowest for males (55.0) in Manchester.
The news comes in the run up to Richmond’s Full of Life fair on October 1, an annual event coinciding with national Older People’s Day, celebrating the achievements and contributions of older people to society.
This year, the event at Harlequins Rugby Club, will be attended by Sylvia Syms OBE, an English actress best known for roles in films such as ‘Woman in a Dressing Gown’ and ‘The Tamarind Seed’.
Organiser Fiona Kay said: “Everyone knows about the event now, it’s getting bigger and better.”
The fair will include charity stalls, activities such as Pilates, Nordic walking, dance classes and a tombola with a year’s supply of beauty products on offer amongst numerous other prizes.
Cllr Christine Percival said they were delighted with Richmond’s top results and confirmed the health and wellbeing of all residents is at the heart of the council’s work.
“We are doing everything in our power to ensure this continues and we will not become complacent” she stated.
The council-run Full of Life fair is completely free, including transport, complimentary tea and coffee and a free hot lunch to top off an action packed day.
The event runs from 10am to 4pm. For more information visit: www.richmond.gov.uk/home/health_and_social_care/full_of_life_2013
Photo courtesy of classic film scans, with thanks.
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