Midlife workers regret not prioritising health in their 30s, with 19 per cent wishing they had worked less and 27 per cent wishing they had managed stress better, but many are still failing to act, according to new research from Vista Health.
The study of 7,000 adults aged 40 to 65 found that 75 per cent of respondents worry about their health, often starting around age 40. They expressed regret over past health choices with 45 per cent wishing they had exercised more in their 30s, 41 per cent wishing they had eaten better, and 27 per cent saying they should have managed stress more effectively. Others highlight sleep, alcohol and work-life balance as areas they would have improved.
But most are not meeting basic health guidelines, with 69 per cent not reaching the recommended 150 minutes of weekly exercise, and the average fruit and vegetable intake is just 2.7 portions per day, well below the five-a-day target. Most respondents also get only 6.5 hours of sleep per night, short of the advised seven to nine hours and 14 per cent are drinking more than the recommended 14 units of alcohol per week.
Additionally, 76 per cent of midlife workers experience daily stress and 25 per cent have sought help since turning 40, a quarter say they would not seek support for a mental health issue. Among retail workers, this figure rises to 29 per cent.
Vista Health NHS GP and chief medical officer Dr Reem Hasan says: “It’s concerning to see so many midlife workers not meeting basic health needs. The stress of daily life can take a toll, and it can be too easy to prioritise work over health, especially for midlifers who may be juggling the demands of working, with caring for ageing parents, and raising children.
“But getting the basics right is crucial to live well for longer. This is vital for both physical and mental health. Midlife does not always have to be a crisis. While it is often when people start to notice changes in their health, it is also a powerful moment to take control. Feeling empowered to seek medical advice and make positive changes is key to long-term wellbeing.
“With sick leave at a record high, employers must take action now to support both the physical and mental wellbeing of their teams. A key part of that is offering a benefits package that prioritises health, ensuring access to fast and accessible care.”