Social activities to support your healthy ageing
Socialising boosts your mood, supports overall health, and can help prevent disease. Explore LiveUp’s Social Activities database to find events that bring you closer to your healthy ageing goals.
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2.What are your healthy ageing goals?
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Why are social activities important?
Social activities can help you stay healthy and independent. Getting out with others is key for improving health.
Research shows that the effects of being alone and feeling lonely lead to a higher risk of chronic disease. But social activities can safeguard against them.
Staying connected is a great way to look after yourself and maintain your independence.
The benefits of social activities
There are lots of positive effects from spending more time with others. Here are some of the most common benefits of getting out to see people:
- Prevents isolation and feeling lonely
- Keeps the mind sharp and improves memory
- Protects against several chronic conditions including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
- Promotes a stronger immune system, improves physical health, and increases movement
One of the best things about social activities is that you can choose to do the things you enjoy! You might not have friends or family who would like to do those things with you. Picking an activity you enjoy is a great way to meet new, like-minded people.
Where do I start?
If you don't have an activity that you enjoy, we can help you choose one.
Take our free healthy ageing quiz for personalised advice and activities in your local area.
The LiveUp Facebook page is a great space to find information and share experiences with like-minded people. Follow the LiveUp Facebook page for the latest articles, events, and expert tips on how to age well.
ConnectUp is an online community and safe space where people can share their healthy ageing journeys.
The benefits of volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to help causes across Australia fulfil their missions. But did you know that volunteering is as good for you as it is for the projects you volunteer for?
Some of the benefits include:
- Boosting self-confidence
- Increasing self-esteem
- Having fun with like-minded people
- Using your skills and knowledge
- Reducing your stress levels
- Reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness
- Challenging your brain by learning new things
- Gaining a new perspective on life
- Enjoying helping others and making a difference
- Better mental, physical, and emotional health
Many groups can help you find a meaningful volunteering position. For a useful online resource, visit the Go Volunteer website.
To find a charity and position that’s best suited to you, think about your skills and hobbies and where they might be useful. Consider charities you know or have supported in the past.
For example, The Heart Foundation offers a volunteering program. So do most local councils, parks, and tourist information centres.