Household Chores Have Health Benefit

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Not many of us enjoy housework but it is a necessary evil. I do have some good news - sort of. According to a new study, even light physical activity around the home reduces the risk for disability in older adults.

Dusting, mopping, and similar tasks may not cause you to breathe heavy or break a sweat, but researchers in the British Medical Journal who spent two years tracking 1,680 adults age 49 or older found those who spent the most time doing light physical activity, such as household chores, maintained more ability to perform daily activities than those who stayed sedentary.

Doctors recommend most people get about 30 minutes of exercise five days a week and you might be surprised about the benefits of household work.