Improved mobility is associated with increased earnings and extended working careers among adults

A recent research study conducted by the National Institute of Health has unveiled a strong connection between better mobility, higher income, and longer working years in adults. The research, carried out by scientists from the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, a branch of the National Institute of Health, has emphasized that maintaining mobility is closely tied to increased income earnings over time.

The link between enhanced mobility and improved financial prospects highlights the integral role mobility plays in one’s overall health and well-being. The findings add to the growing body of evidence supporting the advantages of regular exercise and an active lifestyle.

This comprehensive study was spearheaded by Dr. Timothy Bhattacharyya, who heads the Clinical and Investigative Orthopaedics Surgery Unit at the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.

Dr. Bhattacharyya and his team examined data from the Health and Retirement Study (HERS), a federally funded initiative representing the largest cross-sectional survey of individuals aged 59 and older. The HERS program delves into various aspects of aging, including the impact on work, health, family, social life, psychological well-being, and economic status.

**Methodology**

The research began by examining the correlation between household income and mobility in a sample of over 19,000 HERS participants who initially responded to the survey. Participants were categorized into six mobility levels based on their ability to perform specific tasks related to mobility, such as walking various distances, climbing stairs, and moving within a room.

These mobility levels ranged from Level 0, indicating severe difficulties with all mobility tasks, to Level 5, representing unrestricted mobility. The results were striking, revealing a significant income discrepancy associated with different mobility levels.

**Key Findings**

For every decrease in mobility levels, the participants experienced a reduction in annual income, with the decline amounting to at least $3,000 or more.

One of the key findings demonstrated a positive correlation between income and mobility category. As mobility levels increased, so did income, indicating that those with higher mobility were generally earning more.

This trend held true for both men and women across various age brackets. Both genders saw an increase in income as they moved up the mobility categories. The relationship between maintaining mobility and income was another focal point of the study.

**The Impact of Maintaining Mobility**

Researchers identified a group of participants with unrestricted mobility who had responded to the survey over the course of a decade. This subset of individuals who managed to maintain their mobility through regular exercise and active lifestyles experienced higher incomes, earning an average of $6,500 more than their less mobile counterparts. Furthermore, they were more likely to remain employed, highlighting the financial benefits of maintaining mobility.

In addition to examining income, the study explored the role of exercise in preserving mobility among older participants. Follow-up assessments were conducted two and four years after the initial survey responses.

The findings revealed that individuals who retained their mobility after reaching the age of 55 had a 19-point higher likelihood of maintaining active working status. Engaging in exercise just once a week had a significant positive impact on mobility levels over time.

These results emphasize the profound impact of mobility on an individual’s economic well-being. Not only does better mobility correspond to higher income, but it also supports longer working years, ensuring continued financial stability and employment opportunities.

In light of these findings, the study underscores the importance of incorporating regular exercise and an active lifestyle into daily routines, particularly as individuals age. These practices not only enhance mobility and overall health but also contribute to financial security and a prolonged working life. The implications of this research are significant, highlighting the multifaceted benefits of prioritizing mobility and physical activity as individuals navigate the journey of aging.