HEALTH

Dog walking could be key to keeping older people more active, a study shows. The research, published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, analysed data from a long-term study tracking the health and wellbeing of thousands of people living in Norfolk.

Researchers from the University of Cambridge found that owning or walking a dog was one of the most effective ways to beat the usual decline in later-life activity.

Study lead author Dr Yu-Tzu Wu acknowledged that dog ownership is not possible for everyone but added: “Dog walking opportunities for older adults who do not own a dog could be organised by local community organisations or charities, and dog walking groups may provide wider wellbeing benefits associated with increased social contact.”

Experts recommend putting on suncream before you get on a plane – especially if you have a window seat. UVA rays can penetrate even the thick glass on commercial aircraft. Dr Justine Hextall, a consultant dermatologist at the Tarrant Street Clinic in Arundel, West Sussex, said: “Flight attendants and pilots have twice the lifetime risk of skin cancer.”

Have your children been through a traumatic event? Help is now available for parents worried about the mental health of their kids.

More than two-thirds of children will experience at least one traumatic event by the age of 16, according to the Institute of Health Visiting.

This can range from largescale incidents such as the Grenfell Tower tragedy and terror attacks to car accidents and operations. Other examples include experiencing or witnessing violence, abuse, serious illnesses or dog bites.

The IHV has worked with the Mental Health Foundation to develop new tips for parents to help them support their kids after trauma.

Visit mentalhealth.org.uk.

ANDREW GREGORY is the Mirror’s Health Editor