Stay active, stay connected: Live well at every age

As we get older, life can change in ways we don’t always expect. Keeping active and staying socially connected can make a big difference to our physical health and mental and emotional wellbeing.

Even simple activities, like going for a walk in the park, joining a club, or catching up with friends over a cup of tea can lift our spirits and keep our minds sharp. We all deserve to feel connected, confident and supported at every stage of our life.

Making connections

Getting involved in local activities is a great way to meet new people and strengthen existing friendships. Sharing stories, laughter and experiences helps build a sense of belonging, and it’s a fun way to learn something new.

Live Well Oxfordshire offers a wide range of activities and groups, from new hobbies, and lunch clubs to coffee mornings. There’s a whole world of activities waiting your you. 

Find activities that match your interests, including hobbies, fitness classes, and educational sessions. You can join community day groups or meet up for lunch in your local area. If you prefer to stay at home, the home library service can deliver books straight to your door. There are also local transport services available to help you get out and about. 

Age UK Oxfordshire’s community link workers can also help you discover local activities and support that can boost your health and wellbeing and help you live life to the fullest.

Keeping healthy and active

Being active is not only good for our bodies —it also lifts our mood, boosts our confidence and helps us stay independent. And the good news? It’s never too late to try something new or revisit a hobby you’ve always loved.

Regular movement can improve our balance, reduce the risk of falls as we get older, and boost our confidence and energy. It’s also a fantastic way to get out of the house, meet new people, and feel more connected to your community. Staying active, even in small ways can really make a difference.

On Live Well Oxfordshire you can find a range of local groups, gentle exercise classes and support services. Whatever your age, ability or interests you will find the right fit for you. Whether you want to build strength, increase stability or confidence. From strength and balance, to moving and grooving at Zumba, or meeting up for a Parkrun, there’s something for everyone.

You can also download Age UK Oxfordshire’s moving more guide. It includes seven free workout routines and practical tips to help you build confidence and stay motivated at home. The guide shows how small, everyday movements can lower your risk of falling and support a more active lifestyle.

Move Together, run by Active Oxfordshire, supports people living with long‑term health conditions. Their coordinators are there to offer friendly guidance and encouragement. Whether you want to build your confidence, improve your mobility, or boost your overall wellbeing, they can help. From simple homebased exercises to gentle activities and local walking routes, Move Together helps you stay active in a way that feels right for you.

Support for people who find it hard to get out

If mobility, energy levels, or health make going out difficult, there are still many ways to stay connected and supported.

You can find community transport on Live Well Oxfordshire, making it easier to get to appointments, clubs, and social activities, if travelling on your own feels challenging.

There are also a range of at‑home support services. Get books delivered straight to your door with the home library service. The Good neighbour schemes can help with everyday tasks like collecting prescriptions or simply popping in for a friendly chat.

Age UK Oxfordshire’s telephone befriending service offers weekly calls from a caring volunteer, helping build connections and making sure no one feels alone.

 Other articles that may interest you

• Planning ahead – What to think about when planning for future care needs.
• Paying for social care – How social care is funded, the threshold for financial support and paying for care.
• Housing options – Exploring different housing options so you can make a decision that’s right for you.
• Support to live at home - How to make your home work for you, from daily living aids, mobility aids to assistive technology.
• Care at home - Your home care options and what to consider when looking for a care at home provider.
• Assessing care needs - Occupational therapist assessments, drop-in clinics, and what happens at a care assessment.
• Caring for someone - Support available for unpaid carers, including young carers
• Live Well Oxfordshire - Connecting you to activities and services in the community