A third of over-45s have never had a 'proper dance' – and now feel 'too old'

A third of over-45s have never had a 'proper dance' – and now feel 'too old'Nearly a third of over-45s claim they’ve never let their hair down and had a 'proper dance' – despite growing up in a decade synonymous with rave culture and dance music.CommentsLifestyleGemma Francis12:53, 17 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesOver-45s worry they are 'too old' to have a proper dance now(Image: Getty Images)A study of 2,000 adults found 29% of those aged 45 and over say they’ve never truly lost themselves in music – a higher proportion than among younger age groups. Among those who have, 31% admitted it had been at least five years since they last did so, while 6% said it was at least a decade ago.‌A lack of opportunity was one of the main reasons cited by over-45s (16%), while 30% said there aren’t enough places 'for people like them', where they feel comfortable letting go.‌The research was commissioned by Kellogg’s, which has partnered with DJs Zoe Ball and Jo Whiley to launch an over-50s rave – taking place at breakfast time.‌Zoe Ball said: “Honestly, a good tune and a little dance can sort you right out. The idea of getting up, seeing friendly faces, hearing some great music and grabbing some breakfast is such a lovely way to start the day properly.“As life changes, it’s more important than ever to make time for things that lift your spirits and get you moving.”View 2 ImagesJo Whiley and Zoe Ball will be hosting an over-50s rave(Image: Kellogg's)‌Despite coming of age in the 90s, over-45s were more likely than younger adults to say they have never had a “proper” dance. The figure was 17% among 25–34-year-olds and 22% among 25–44-year-olds.Men (30%) were also more likely than women (21%) to say they’ve missed out on a good groove on the dancefloor.Among the reasons older people gave for holding back were feeling self-conscious or worried about being judged (10%) and physical limitations (14%). But one in 10 (11%) said they simply...