PASTIME PASSIONS STUDY HAS UNEXPECTED FINDINGS

October 19, 2020

A new study by Stannah Stairlifts – reported in THIIS Magazine – highlights surprising similarities between the generations.

Over 2,000 adults in the UK took part in the research (carried out by OnePoll in September 2020) that shows that the average adult enjoys three hobbies a week and spends over eight hours a week on their hobbies.

The data suggests that we continue to be somewhat traditional when it comes to our interests, with reading topping the list, closely followed by walking, gardening and eating out. People are as interested in doing puzzles as they are in travelling.

Generations

Surprisingly, it was found that the younger generation are more likely to be keen on sewing and cross-stitching than the older age group. And 18–24 year olds are three times more likely to be interested in calligraphy than people over 55 years old.

One-quarter of those surveyed said they picked up a hobby from an older relative, but only 11% of the older generation developed an interest after being influenced by a younger member of the family.

Perhaps unsurprisingly the older generation (over 55 years old) are more likely to read during their spare time than 18–24 year-olds (68% vs 41%). And adults aged 44 and under are 10 times more likely to be interested in apps such as TikTok, and eight times more likely to have an Instagram account, than those aged 55 and over.

The top ten

According to the study, the top 10 most popular pastimes for those over 55 years old are:

Reading (68%)

Walking (61%)

Gardening (59%)

Eating out (44%)

Doing puzzles (43%)

Travelling (43%)

Watching films (42%)

Cooking (40%)

Baking (30%)

Socialising (29%)

“It’s clear from the results of our survey that Brits like to make the most of their spare time to indulge in a wide range of activities,” says Patrick Stannah, managing director of Stannah. “It’s wonderful that many traditional hobbies have stood the test of time, proving to be popular with all ages with millions of Brits enjoying activities like gardening and baking.”

The useful observations into people’s interests will help mobility suppliers and retailers understand which topics they could hone in on when creating dialogue with their current and potential customers.

Click here to read the original news story from THIIS Magazine.

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