A significant proportion of UK pensioners face a number of barriers preventing them from leading the lifestyle they would choose, according to one organisation.

Help the Aged has commented on a recent report from financial provider HSBC, entitled The Future of Retirement, which welcomed the increasing active lifestyles led by Britain's elderly.

The charity states that, while the trend is to be welcomed, it does not reflect the reality for a section of the elderly community.

David Sinclair, head of policy at Help the Aged, commented: "Many UK pensioners face barriers to an active lifestyle - ageist attitudes, badly thought-out transport planning and an increase in public toilet closures."

"If we want to celebrate all older people living fuller lives, the government has to come to the party. It must commit to ending pensioner poverty, providing more opportunities for activities and employment and ending social disadvantage."

HSBC's ongoing report into retirement trends also suggests that the health of the older generation is also improving, enhancing their ability to stay active for longer.