Respondents were asked whether they had to cut down on their normal activities in the two weeks prior to interview as a result of illness or injury.

In 2000, 13% of males and 15% of females reported restricted activity due to illness or injury during the two weeks prior to interview. As with chronic conditions, an age gradient was evident, but it was not as steep. Around one in ten of those aged under 16 had an acute sickness which restricted their activities during the two week period compared with a quarter of those aged 75 and over. The proportions of those reporting restricted activity increased from 8% in 1972 to 12% in 1981 remained around this level in the 1980s. From 1993 onwards, the proportion ranged between 14% and 16%.