New environmental research to look at impact of green spaces on ageing populations

University of Manchester Geographer, Dr Sarah Lindley, is leading a new research project looking at the impact of green public spaces on the health and wellbeing of an ageing population.   Read more about it here.

New Age-Friendly Network for Beswick, Clayton & Openshaw

Age-Friendly Manchester is pleased to announce the launch of a new Locality Network for the Beswick and Bradford Wards. The Network will be supported by buzz and will bring together local service providers, voluntary organisations and a range of partners supporting or working with local older people.  The aim of the Network will be to ultimately create an age-friendly neighbourhood that everyone can enjoy.
Launch Meeting: Thursday 9 February 2017 at 10.00am at The Grange, Pilgrim Drive, Beswick.

There is such a lot of great work going on in north and east Manchester that is having a positive impact on the lives of older people but there is still so much we need to improve upon. If you have a specific interest in issues important to local older people and are interested in joining the Network, please contact Lana Burrows on 0161 882 2577 for more information or Lana.Burrows@mhsc.nhs.uk

(Information courtesy of Age Friendly Manchester)

Combatting loneliness

Derek Taylor, a tenant of Southway Housing in Withington, was interviewed recently by the BBC where he discussed what he has done to help with loneliness.  Derek has also featured in the recent Age Friendly Manchester publication where you can view his 'Top 10 tips', discussed in the video.
Watch the feature

10 Tips for Being More Mindful

Older? In a relationship? Live in GM? UoM Researchers would like to talk to you!

The University of Manchester's research has found that many older people remain sexually active. Sexual problems such as difficulties achieving orgasm and erectile dysfunction are relatively common, however. They've analysed written comments from over a thousand study participants and both sexes emphasised their anxiety at not being taken seriously by health practitioners as they sought to overcome issues affecting their sexual activity and satisfaction.

Researchers are keen to discuss issues around sexual health and ageing with some older people who are in a relationship, ideally who would be prepared to be interviewed as a couple, who we can put forward as case studies. We hope our research will also encourage a more open discourse about late-life sexuality and health, and foster wider intergenerational understanding that sex doesn’t stop at 50!

Contact Dave Lee, Research Fellow, on 0161 306 6952 or david.m.lee@manchester.ac.uk

Golden Voices Choir is looking for new members

Why don't you join this friendly group of over 50s who sing pop and traditional songs from many lands?  There's no audition and you don't have to read music. They have an inspiring musical director who teaches and encourages. They've performed at a range of venues including day centres, luncheon clubs, hospitals, museums and art galleries. Prospective members are welcome to join a rehearsal before signing up.

They have fun in every session and people go home feeling uplifted having made friends and feeling fitter and healthier. Singing is good for you!

Find out more

(Information courtesy of Age Friendly Manchester)

Addendum: And here's why you should join!

The 'Our Manchester' Strategy

Manchester City Council has summed up their vision for Manchester, illustrated in a great new video.  Our Manchester is for the whole of the city, overseen by a forum of Manchester leaders drawn from all the partners – public services, voluntary groups and communities working together for Manchester.