7 Things to Do For Elderly People in Cambridgeshire
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Choosing which area to retire to is a big decision. Should you stay close to family? Or move to a home surrounded by natural beauty?
These considerations will be different for everyone and careful thought will be needed to ensure you select a location that you will feel happy in. For people craving history and picturesque landscapes, Cambridgeshire may be the right choice.
In this guide, Lottie looks at things to do for the elderly in Cambridgeshire. Read on to see if it might be the place for you.
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1. Explore the Fitzwilliam Museum
Over 200 years old, the Fitzwilliam Museum houses a vast collection of antiquities and art, with one of the greatest catalogues in Europe.
Part of the University of Cambridge, the museum stores over half a million works, including masterpiece paintings and sculptures. It’s a fantastic place to explore for anyone interested in history or art.
Although you should book in advance, due to high demand, entry to the museum is free. This means you can wander the halls and enjoy the artefacts as many times as you wish.
2. Visit the Cambridge University Botanic Garden
The Cambridge University Botanic Garden was founded originally in 1762. It was moved to the current site by Charles Darwin’s mentor, John Stevens Henley, in 1831, allowing it to flourish into a stunning collection of natural life.
The Garden is now home to over 8,000 species of plants. These are used to support the research of the university, as well as being open for all to come and enjoy.
The Garden mounts new exhibitions throughout the year, meaning there’s always more to explore. Opening times can differ depending on the season, although you shouldn’t need to book in advance, so visiting is easy.
3. Take the Tower Tour at Peterborough Cathedral
At 900 years old, the Peterborough Cathedral is an icon of medieval architecture. Important throughout British history, the Cathedral is the final resting place of two queens: Katharine of Aragon, Henry VIII’ first wife, and Mary Queen of Scots, the executed cousin of Elizabeth I.
Touring the site allows you to get up close to the history of the building, as well as to take in the stunning view of Cambridge that can be seen from the Tower’s high vantage point. Admission for this experience is £15.
For those who would prefer to enjoy the Cathedral without taking the tour, no ticket is required for a visit. A donation may be requested but is not mandatory.
4. Join St Paul’s Friday Lunch Club
St Paul’s is a church in the centre of Cambridge that prides itself on being at the heart of its community. Part of the Inclusive Church network, they welcome all people, regardless of background.
Each Friday, the church hosts their Lunch Club, particularly attended by those over 60. For older people, it can be a great way to meet new friends, as well as eat some lovely food.
For just £4, you will be given two courses, as well as a tea or coffee after. While the event is hosted by the church, it is open to all and attended by people from a variety of religious beliefs.
5. Keep Moving with Forever Active
Staying active as you age is important to maintaining mobility, health and happiness. Getting started can be intimidating if you’re out of practice, which is why Forever Active provides classes designed specifically to help elderly people exercise.
Forever Active works with seniors across Cambridgeshire, offering sessions on everything from badminton to pilates. These are open to all people over the age of 50, making it a comfortable and supportive way to get healthy.
It’s a fantastic way to increase your fitness and even meet new people. The activities are affordably priced at £6 per session, or £5 with a membership, ensuring that the service is available to as many people as possible.
6. Attend a Day Club
Many older people struggle with feelings of isolation at times and it can be challenging to reach out for help. Day clubs combat this issue, providing a welcoming environment for elderly people to socialise and make new friends.
These clubs arrange a variety of activities, from games to guest speakers, creating a safe and enjoyable space to allow for easy interactions with new people. You will also generally be offered a hot meal and drink whilst you are there.
Age UK hosts day clubs around the country, with their Cambridge site being called the Cherry Trees Day Club. It’s open for visitors on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, and help getting to the venue can be provided if necessary.
7. Take in Cambridgeshire Nature
Cambridge is blessed with beautiful natural landscapes that should be enjoyed by those who live in or visit the area. Following the areas’ many walking routes is the perfect way to do so.
AllTrails has many predetermined paths that will take you through the county’s greatest landmarks. They are tagged with difficulty levels ‘easy’, ‘moderate’ and ‘hard’, so that you can select the right walk for your ability.
If you are new to hiking, a short and simple trail to start with would be the Cambridge City Circular. The four mile loop route will take you through many of the city’s best known parks and past some of the university’s most famous buildings.
Finding a Care Home in Cambridgeshire
If you think that Cambridgeshire is the place for your relative’s retirement, you may want to find a care home in the area. Lottie has vetted a selection of homes, so you can feel confident when choosing your loved one’s care.
You can view our care homes in Cambridgeshire here.
Here are two of the best care homes in Cambridgeshire that we offer:
We’re on a mission to support individuals and their loved ones throughout each stage of their later living journey. For more information, check out everything Lottie has to offer.
