Loneliness and isolation can be felt at any age in society but is particularly prevalent in older generations. Age UK reports that if loneliness is not addressed it can become chronic and could have a serious impact on people’s health and well-being, making it harder to get through the bleak days of January.

However, research shows that the gentle movement of activities like yoga and t’ai chi keeps us mentally and physically agile as we age and can have a positive impact on mood, especially at this time of year. Spencer Court Activities Coordinator, Sammy Light, says: “We wanted to try something new that would tempt everyone to have a go which is why we’ve chosen yoga and t’ai chi because most of our residents haven’t tried them before.” 

As well as the novelty of being a different new activity, the benefits of both yoga and t’ai chi for older people include increased flexibility, increased muscle strength and tone as well as improved respiration, energy and vitality. This is in addition to the activities’ calming and stress relieving properties which are beneficial for mental health.

The home has chosen local instructors who specialise in delivering fitness classes to older adults and are experts in making their sessions accessible to people of all abilities.

The home is looking forward to trying something new, being active and beating the January blues!

To find out more about the home’s activities please visit their webpage.