As the nation celebrates UK Older People's Day, new research by the government has suggested that Britain's over-50s are happier than at any other time in their lives.

Research carried out as part of the Generation Xperience campaign has indicated that elderly people enjoy good health into and beyond their 60s, are more financially secure and are less stressed, reports the Telegrpah.

Eight out of ten over-50s have stated that prospects for later life are better than their parents and almost one in three over-65s stated that they have more goals than they did in their 30s, reports the publication.

Less than five per cent of respondents stated that later life would result in boredom.

Author of Fifty is Not a Four-Letter Word Linda Kelsey told the newspaper: "A wise older woman once said that she didn't mind being regarded as being over the hill because it's only once you're over the hill that you pick up speed."

Today marks the launch of a nationwide programme of events throughout October to celebrate the achievements, dreams and opportunities for older people in society.