Over 50s invited to Love Later Life and get active in nature
Age UK Devon, Forestry England and Active Devon invite people aged over 50 to join a day of FREE taster activities at Haldon Forest Park, near Exeter. It is a well-known fact that being active in the natural environment can be beneficial to both physical and mental health. A walk or a jog through the woods will increase activity levels, improve overall fitness and boost wellbeing. It’s just as important to enjoy good health when you are aged 50 and over, which is why this ‘Loving Later Life’ event invites people to try new and alternative activities, or revisit an old hobby, to immerse themselves in nature.
The ‘Loving Later Life’ Forest Taster Day will take place on Wednesday 25 September, 10am-2pm, at Haldon Forest Park. The bursting timetable of varied activities will include guided cycling, gentle Pilates, an introduction to orienteering, forest bathing, gong bathing, a variety of walks for all abilities, and much more!
The event is supported by Active Devon’s ‘Connecting Actively to Nature’ (CAN) project which is delivered across Devon to support people over 55 to be more active outdoors, with all the benefits that brings.
Sophie Littlewood, Chief Executive of Age UK Devon, said: “We passionately believe that exercise is for anyone, at any age. That’s why we established our Active in Later Life programme, to support older people to boost their activity levels. Our work with Active Devon and Forestry England is a great example of how we can work in partnership with other organisations to benefit communities and Haldon Forest Park is a wonderful environment to maintain and develop both health and wellbeing.”
Tom Mack, of Active Devon, said: “We know that some people are not as active as they get older, and can also be lonely or socially isolated. Devon's Local Nature Partnership and Active Devon, along with our network of partners, such as Age UK Devon and Haldon Forest Park, are creating opportunities across Devon and Torbay for activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, yoga, tai chi and exploring our green spaces. The 'Loving Later Life' event is a great opportunity for people to come and have a go at an activity, and meet people. You could even volunteer to inspire others!"
Toby Bowen-Scott, Haldon Forest Park manager, said: “We’re delighted to continue our partnership with Age UK Devon and Active Devon, who share our commitment to connecting people to the great outdoors. We have recently completed a number of developments at Haldon Forest Park which will help us to ensure that visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of being active in the forest, whether they’re breathing in the fresh air, learning about our special wildlife, or building their fitness and co-ordination on a trail.”
For more information, please visit: https://www.forestryengland.uk/forest-event/events-haldon-forest-park/loving-later-life-forest-taster-day
