Dame Helen Mirren has urged people in midlife not to "fear" ageing

The Age UK ambassador said in a statement: "Whatever you may think about ageing, it's something we must all try to embrace rather than fear.

"It's no secret that for many, getting older will come with its complications - specifically there will likely be aches and pains along the way, getting out and about and living as independently as we're used to in our younger years may not be as easy to do.

"This is why I'm supporting Age UK's Act Now, Age Better campaign, they're encouraging everyone in their 50s to make little changes now to help them later on in life.

"It doesn't have to be joining a gym; it can just be small changes like taking a short walk or yoga, which I still enjoy.

"It's never too late to start doing something, so why not give something a go while you're younger?"

A new study by Kantar - which surveyed 2,100 UK adults aged 50 to 65 - has found that 45 percent of people don't think they do enough exercise.

Although almost a quarter blame health issues on their lack of exercise, 19 percent have been put off by feeling unfit, with 18 percent blaming a lack of time.

The charity's chief ex ecutive Paul Farmer said: "Age UK's first major campaign aimed at people aged between 50 and 65 is driven by a major concern for the country's physical and mental wellbeing as we age.

"Yet evidence shows that being more physically active, in whatever way works for us, and within our own capabilities, is great for our physical and mental health.

"Even a small amount of movement can make a big difference.

"Making regular physical activity a key part of our routine is one of the best ways to stay well and therefore sustain our health, wellbeing and independence in later life."