Please note: The content on these pages is currently being co-designed with people who will use it. Your feedback is welcome as we continue to refine and improve these resources.
Transport and getting around
If you’d like to attend events or classes but aren’t sure how to get there, there’s help available. Maybe you don’t drive, buses don’t reach your area, or you’re just unsure about traveling alone.
For tips on bus routes and ticketing, the New to Leeds website has everything you need. You can also find easy guides on using transport apps through 100% Digital Leeds who have gathered a collection of digital guides in these online folders.
If you need extra support, Travel Connections is a project aimed at helping older people feel more confident travelling alone. They can arrange for travel buddies and accessible taxi options, especially for older people with disability, or dementia-related needs. Learn more through the Leeds Older People’s Forum’s Travel Connections page or email them at info@opforum.org.uk.
Staying active
Getting older doesn’t mean you have to stop being active. Keeping active is good for both your mind and body. In fact, exercise can be as effective as medication for mild to moderate depression.
There are many ways to become more active, including on your own or with others. Whether it’s walking, dancing, or gardening, find something you enjoy and start small – every little bit helps.
Leeds has many places for older people to exercise, including leisure centres, parks, and programmes for people with health conditions:
- Active Leeds: Offers a variety of activities for older people, including Age Friendly programmes, gyms, fitness classes, and swimming. They also have programs for people with health conditions, such as Keep Moving, a low-impact exercise class.
- Age UK Leeds: Hosts regular wellbeing and exercise events, including a new Moving with Confidence programme.
- Parks and green spaces: Leeds has plenty of green spaces for activities like walking, cycling, and games.
- Falls Prevention Postural Stability Classes: A structured program for people at risk of falls that includes chair-based and standing exercises to improve strength, balance and co-ordination.
- Leeds Encouraging Activity in People (LEAP): Provides personalised support to people with health conditions who want to move more.
- Neighbourhood Networks: Locally-led organisations that help older people live independently and stay active in their communities. For more information contact your nearest neighbourhood.
- Older Wiser Local Seniors (OWLS): Help seniors in Burley, Hyde Park, Little Woodhouse, Headingley, and Kirkstall stay healthy and independent.
For more tips and ideas, visit our Exercise and Move Your Way section or download our Move Your Way resource for advice on moving more at home and outdoors.
Exercising if you have persistent pain
Living with persistent pain can make staying active more difficult, and it’s common to reduce movement to avoid discomfort. But not moving very much often leads to more weakness, tiredness, and muscle pain. For most people, gentle and regular movement can actually improve quality of life.
It’s best to find the right pace – too much activity all at once can lead to flare-ups and setbacks. Look for accessible activities or try our exercise videos, which include options tailored to specific health conditions. There is also lots of useful information on the NHS website about getting active if you have a disability or health condition.
For extra support, talk to your GP about a referral to the Leeds Community Pain Service. They can offer guidance on managing pain while staying active.
Building social connections
Staying connected helps us feel supported and reduces feelings of isolation. While independence can be positive, too much can lead to feeling cut off or without anyone to turn to.
Loneliness, like hunger, is a signal that we need more social connection. It affects our mental wellbeing, regardless of age, and can make it harder to enjoy life. Meaningful relationships remind us that others care.
Keeping in touch with family, friends, neighbours, joining social groups, or volunteering can all help build these connections. Visit our page on connecting with others for information about how to feel less lonely, services for older people, and more ideas and links.
Connect through volunteering
Volunteering can help you feel less lonely and more connected with others. Studies have shown that it boosts mental wellbeing and helps create a sense of purpose.
Explore our volunteer section for ideas on how to get involved. Or why not volunteer with MindWell and apply to become a MindWell Champion!
Ageing Well in Leeds report by Leeds City Council
A recent report asked over 900 people aged 50 and over, plus 150 professionals, about their experiences of ageing in Leeds. It showed how important it is to be active, stay connected with others, and look after your health physical and mental health.
You can read the full Ageing Well: Our Lives in Leeds report by Leeds City Council or watch the video about it below.