New research by Boots, the UK’s leading health, wellness and beauty retailer, highlights the important role and growing influence of young adults on parents’ health habits. Results show that three in four (77%) say they would be more likely to consider a health check if their Gen Z, Millennial or Gen X child had suggested it. Despite 8 in 10 parents (79%) recognising that preventatively managing their health is important, less than half (44%) have had an essential health check in the last six months.   

Additionally, over a third (35%) of parents say they have acted on the health advice from their youngsters. Children being more in tune with the latest health advice (30%) and wellness social media trends (23%) are stated as the top reasons why, with more parents of Gen Z saying their children’s social media savviness was a key reason to trust their guidance (26%). 

More than 40% of parents said their kids influence made them think more seriously about their health. Moreover, nearly a third (30%) say their child has actively encouraged them to try other healthy lifestyle changes like seeking medical advice and increasing physical activity. 

To help those consider a more preventative approach to healthcare and act on their children’s health advice, Boots is working with TikTok father and daughter duo Paul and Phoebe Gillet. The partnership sets out to encourage more families to have open conversations and to take simple steps to understand more about their health, such as booking in for a free Health MOT at Boots. 

The free Health MOT at Boots* is available in most stores in England and can be booked online at boots.com. It offers an NHS blood pressure check and an optional BMI calculation and waist circumference measurement and is available for people aged 40 and over. 

Claire Nevinson Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots said: “It’s great to see that younger adults are stepping up and looking out for their parents’ health, hopefully encouraging positive action.  

“It can be easy to put off getting health checks, but not taking action can carry real risks. High blood pressure is something that can affect any of us and usually has no symptoms, especially as we get older and even if we feel totally healthy.  

“The Boots Health MOT makes it simple for customers to access insights into their healthcare, as well as advice and support right on the high street, with no appointment needed.” 

Phoebe Gillet, aged 25 said: “I like to try and stay close to wellness trends on social media and always try to bring it to our dinner table conversations. We never used to talk about things like blood pressure, diet or health, but Dad and I have had a few conversations recently that really shone a light on how important it is to know your numbers, rather than before something feels ‘wrong.’ I’ve even told a few of my friends to prompt their parents.” 

Phoebe’s dad Paul, aged 59, adds: “It's funny, I used to be the one booking appointments for Phoebe, reminding her to take her vitamins and greens. But now, those roles are starting to switch, she’s constantly encouraging me to try new things and the latest health trends but also be more mindful of my health.  

“A blood pressure check is such a simple step and even though my readings came out slightly high during the appointment, the pharmacist shared some key lifestyle advice which has given me and my whole family peace of mind.”  

According to the research, a third of parents said they don’t get the essential health checks they need because it’s a hassle to book an appointment or that they felt healthy and had no symptoms (28%). However, free checks (37%), advice from a trusted healthcare professional (42%) and access to checks at convenient high-street locations (30%) came out as powerful motivators amongst parents.