How Maintaining Physical Activity Can Impact Your Income Positively

Engaging in regular physical activity not only benefits your health but might also contribute to a healthier income, suggests a recent study conducted by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS).

The research indicates that individuals with good musculoskeletal health, which enhances mobility, are more likely to enjoy a higher income and continue working into their later years. The study, carried out by NIAMS, a part of the National Institutes of Health, analyzed data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), the largest long-term examination of Americans aged 50 and older.

Participants' mobility was assessed on a scale of 0 to 5 based on their ability to perform various tasks, such as walking several blocks, walking one block, walking across a room, climbing several flights of stairs, and climbing one flight of stairs. A score of 5 out of 5 indicated unrestricted mobility, while a score of 0 out of 5 meant participants struggled with all mobility tasks.

The study revealed that even a slight decrease in a person's mobility score, such as moving from 5 to 4 or from 3 to 2, corresponded to a more than $3,000 decline in median annual income.

Furthermore, participants who maintained unrestricted mobility over a decade had a median income $6,500 higher than those with less mobility. Additionally, those with better mobility were more likely to be employed.

Among participants aged 60 to 80 in 2012, those who sustained mobility had a 19-point higher likelihood of actively working compared to those facing challenges in maintaining mobility.

Dr. Lindsey Criswell, NIAMS director, summarized the findings, stating:

"We have long understood that greater mobility is an important indicator of good health. The notion that mobility can have economic rewards further extends the evidence for the benefits of exercise and maintaining an active lifestyle."

The researchers suggest that even exercising once a week can significantly improve your mobility score over time.