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Life is good for those over 60 in San Javier, a new study finds
Residents enjoy better physical fitness than the national average, thanks to local sports programmes and sunny weather
Many have long suspected life in San Javier was good, but now a recent study confirms it. Commissioned by the municipality’s Department of Social Rights and Family and conducted with the University of Murcia’s Faculty of Sports Sciences, the study involved over 500 residents aged 60 and above.The results show this group enjoys better physical health and functionality than their peers across the country, a success attributed to active municipal sports programmes, especially those aimed at seniors, and the area’s pleasant climate that encourages outdoor activity.
Raquel Valero, the study’s director, highlighted a need to boost strength training, which showed the lowest scores among participants. A public event on Wednesday November 12 at 6.00pm in San Javier’s Winter Theater will present the full results. Each participant will receive a personalised report along with a strength-focused exercise routine to do at home.
The study looked beyond physical health, measuring psychosocial wellbeing too. It found that people living in La Manga suffer from higher loneliness and depression, feeling less supported by family and friends. Seniors in El Mirador showed lower physical fitness levels than those in San Javier and neighbouring Santiago de la Ribera. Those in care homes scored lowest across all areas, partly due to their older age: typically 10 to 15 years senior to other participants.Age was another key factor, with the youngest seniors faring best. While women made up most participants (400 out of 500), making gender comparisons difficult, the study suggests women tend to be more aware of self-care. Valero called the research “a pioneering study in Spain” that will help direct resources more effectively and tailor programmes to suit the elderly population’s real needs.
Councilor María del Mar Pérez praised the over 20-strong research team and participants. She said the study, part of the “Aging 2.0” programme, will enable the municipality to better serve and support its growing senior community.
Fieldwork involved eight sessions with participants moving through stations measuring strength, agility, body composition, loneliness, depression, and more. Data analysis also considered residents’ different neighbourhoods, enabling future programmes to address specific local needs.
This upbeat study puts San Javier firmly on the map as a great place to age well and stay active.
Image: Ayuntamiento de San Javier/Facebook
