Elderly shoppers who buy wine online may improve mobility

For elderly shoppers with mobility problems, the ability to buy wine online can mean they are able to enjoy their favourite varieties without having to endure the inconvenience of hunting round their local wine merchants for the right bottle.

But it's not just the convenience that makes it a compelling proposition to buy wine online; the red varieties stocked at those wine merchants' shops could actually help improve impaired mobility, according to new research.

The study, presented to the American Chemical Society in August, looks at the compound resveratrol, already linked with improved cardiac health, anti-cancer benefits, lowered cholesterol and reduced inflammation, as well as certain anti-ageing effects.

Research leader Dr Jane E Cavanaugh says: "Our study suggests that a natural compound like resveratrol, which can be obtained either through dietary supplementation or diet itself, could actually decrease some of the motor deficiencies that are seen in our ageing population."

For those intrigued by the possibilities of adding a moderate amount of red wine to their existing diet, it's further compelling evidence of the prospective health benefits of the beverage, provided that it is consumed responsibly as any alcohol should be.