Third Age Lifestyles Report

According to a report published yesterday by Mintel into Third Age Lifestyles, the older generation do not have as much money to spend as would be expected.

There are a substantial number of third agers who are struggling with poverty, for example those completely reliant on state pensions and there is a wide gap between the differing levels of affluence.

One aspect of the report was into how the over 45s spend their leisure time. One significant element was that ownership of video recorders and use of hired or rented tapes has increased faster among third agers than in any other age group in the last few years.

Those over 65 are the most avid readers of books, while those aged 55-64 are the most enthusiastic readers of magazines and newspapers.

Whilst 45-54 year olds are most likely to be out watching live sport or in the car, the over 55s are interested in crafts and sewing. 45-54 year olds are the peak patrons of theatres, pubs and also it is the peak age for shopping for pleasure. Those aged 45-64 are much more likely to eat out than the population as a whole. They are also more likely to have more than one holiday a year.

Both men and women are most likely to shop at Marks and Spencer for their clothes, and women aged 55-64 spend more time than any other age group at the hairdressers.

The full report is available from Mintel priced £795

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