Free online activity sessions to provide friendship and fitness for those aged 75 and over in West Yorkshire.

 A new programme of free online activities is being rolled out across West Yorkshire this month by national charity, Re-engage, to help enrich the lives of older people and provide a welcome boost to their health and well-being.  

Re-engage are a charity dedicated to tackling social isolation and loneliness in older people. They are launching groups to give those aged 75 and over in West Yorkshire the chance to participate in gentle exercise and connect with others at the same time. 

Kicking off with a choice of Chair Yoga and Tai Chi, the new online groups will take place over Zoom, facilitated by instructors with experience of tailoring exercises specifically for older people, and will leave plenty of time for participants to chat. Re-engage is offering guidance to those who have access to the internet but are unsure of how to use Zoom. 

The charity believes no-one is too old to make friends or enjoy social interaction. Re-engage engagement officer, Deb Meynell, said:

“Our groups are fun, friendly, completely free and provide an opportunity to stay physically active. 

Social isolation and loneliness can take a tremendous toll on both mental and physical health, so we hope our groups will give older people something to look forward to and an opportunity to connect with others.”

Christine, 80, who was part of the trial activity sessions, said:

“I’d definitely recommend the sessions to anyone who wants to introduce light exercise into their life. I’ve felt more confident since, and the activity is brought right to your armchair. I’ve found that gentle exercise can energise you and being in the chair gives you confidence that you won’t fall. You just have to pick up the phone, take some action, it’s all there for you to access.” 

To sign up for classes:

• Call Deb on 0113 322 4771
• Email Deb.Meynell@reenagge.org.uk

Or for more information visit the Re-engage website.

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