Sitting for long stretches is sometimes unavoidable, but repeatedly doing so can be bad even for older adults who regularly exercise. New research from Brunel University of London found that sitting for too long increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes in people over the age of 60.

Researchers analyzed data from 28 international studies that included 82,000 people aged 60 or older. What they found is a strong link between extended sitting time and worsening markers for chronic conditions like high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and increased waist size. And this unappealing news was also true for those who exercised regularly.

The study shows that the longer older people sit for activities like watching TV, reading or just relaxing, the higher their risk for serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke or type 2 diabetes.

"This is a link we can't ignore," said Dr. Daniel Bailey, Reader in Sedentary Behavior and Health at the Department of Life Sciences, Brunel University of London. "You can meet the weekly exercise target, but if you spend the rest of the day sitting, your health is still at risk."

In the UK where the study was conducted, it is estimated there are 12 million people aged 65 or older who spend approximately 80 percent of their waking hours in a sitting position. And this can be even more during the winter months.

That means the risk of health concerns is compounding daily and even affects those who are otherwise healthy. The most at risk of developing issues from extended sitting are those with larger waist sizes, which is one of the highest predictors of health trouble ahead.

"We're seeing these impacts in people who don't yet feel unwell," said Dr. Bailey. "That means we have a chance to intervene early and protect health before problems start.

"The evidence is clear. We urgently need strategies that don't just encourage exercise, but also help people sit less throughout the day," Bailey added. "Simple changes make a difference—standing during phone calls, replacing some TV time with gardening or a stroll, or light chores around the house."

Click here to read more in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health.