Can cycling improve mental health in old age?

The University of Reading is asking for the local community's help for a study which will examine the mental health benefits for older people who regularly cycle.

Cycling is known to be very important for older people - not only as a positive effect on their health but as a potential way of retaining a sense of independence.

However, while cycling accounts for 23% of all journeys for people aged 65 and older in the Netherlands, 15% in Denmark and 9% in Germany, it represents only 1% all journeys in the UK.