A newly launched consumer insight programme has uncovered troubling health trends among Generation X, the group often sandwiched between Baby Boomers and Millennials. Representing nearly 14 million people in the UK—around a quarter of the adult population—Gen X’s health and wellbeing are a growing concern, with many struggling with long-term conditions yet failing to seek help.
The study, part of Just Group’s new GenVoices programme, offers a comprehensive look into the experiences and attitudes of this often overlooked demographic. The first survey, conducted with over 3,000 Gen X adults, reveals stark findings about the physical and mental health challenges facing this generation.
The survey revealed that more than a third (34%) of Gen X individuals have a physical or mental health condition that is expected to last longer than 12 months. Women appear to be more affected, with 39% reporting such conditions compared to 29% of men. Among those with long-term health issues, 82% said it reduced their ability to carry out day-to-day activities.
Mental health conditions such as anxiety and bipolar disorder were the most common, affecting 48% of respondents. Mobility problems were reported by 31%, while menopause-related health issues were particularly prevalent among women, with nearly half (47%) indicating its impact.
Despite the high prevalence of health conditions, the research found worrying attitudes towards managing health. Nearly half (47%) of Gen X adults admitted they rarely consulted anyone about their health, while a quarter (25%) said they were not prioritising their health, and 24% lacked confidence in managing their own health.
In terms of physical activity, almost half (49%) of Gen X respondents were doing less exercise than recommended by the NHS. The NHS advises adults to engage in at least two and a half hours of moderate-intensity activity each week, yet one in five (20%) reported not participating in any form of exercise, and a further 29% were doing less than two hours a week.
Stephen Lowe, group communications director at Just Group, expressed concern over the findings, stating: “The health and wellbeing of Gen X make for stark reading. With over a third of the population suffering from chronic conditions, the majority of them are significantly impacting daily life.”
He highlighted that Gen X faces a complex array of pressures, from caring for aging parents and supporting children to managing financial burdens like mortgages and pensions. Lowe pointed out that while the NHS has increasingly focused on prevention and early diagnosis, uptake of services like free health checks for those aged 40-74 remains low, particularly among men.
Lowe added: “This generation may be juggling busy lives, but it’s important for them to carve out time to address their health. Improving health outcomes can help them not only feel better but also improve their financial stability, positioning them better for a secure retirement.”
In conclusion, the study urges Gen X to prioritise their health and take advantage of NHS services to improve their quality of life, reduce strain on the healthcare system, and stay productive for longer.
