Easy ways to add more ‘interesting’ to your day
Lifestyle changes and shifts in what we value often come thick and fast in later life. Some are forced on us, others welcomed in. An area that can take a significant knock is our social life and friendship circle.
One friendly society that has been helping older adults to stay socially fulfilled and supported for over two centuries is the Oddfellows. A non-profit and mutual, the organisation has 99 branches that encourage friendship groups to thrive in many cities and towns across the UK.
Its branches organise upwards of 700 events each month for their near 49,000 members to connect at and explore new interests. They also offer members chances to volunteer and holiday together.
Currently running a national campaign to highlight the importance of having something interesting in your diary to look forward to for our wellbeing, the Oddfellows is inviting anyone looking to meet new people to give one of its friendship group events a try.
73-year-old retiree Mick Coleman, from Sidcup, is a member of South London Oddfellows. He was encouraged to give an Oddfellows social event a go by people he had met through his work as a gas service engineer.
“I went along to see what it was all about and on the strength of that, I joined,” said Mick. He claimed it was the wide variety of social events and activities which appealed to him, as well as like-minded, friendly locals to enjoy them with.
It was easy, he explained. Whether it be a walk, an interesting talk, a trip out or a coffee morning, everything was organised for him – all he had to do was turn up and enjoy himself.
Mick said: “The amount of people you meet as an Oddfellow is amazing. It’s given me great confidence. It’s brought me out of my shell. And it’s done that for other people I’ve spoken to.”
He added: “If you’re lonely, you’ve just been widowed, or whatever has happened to you in your life, there’s a whole bunch of people that will surround you with love and help you out. You’ll never be alone.”
Now nudging others to give an Oddfellows event a try, Mick said: “Head down to your local Oddfellows and get involved. A warm welcome’s waiting.”
To find out more about what Oddfellows events and activities are running near to you, call 0800 028 1810 and ask for a free info pack and local events diary or request one online.
You can also search for local events and activities on the Oddfellows’ website.
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