This sociocultural benefit of physical activity is the result of increased physical and mental health:

• A. Social inclusion
• B. Decreased health care costs
• C. Stronger communities
• D. Camaraderie

Answer: (B)

When people become more physically active and experience better physical and mental health, a clear societal benefit is lower health care costs. Healthier individuals tend to need fewer medical visits, fewer hospitalizations, and less reliance on medications. Improved mental health also reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, which can cut the need for crisis care and urgent services. Because the overall demand for health care drops, communities and families save on expenses and resources can be redirected to other needs. The other outcomes—social inclusion, stronger communities, and camaraderie—are valuable social benefits that can accompany activity, but they don’t hinge as directly on the improved health status in the same way cost reductions do.