Hospital Radio: It’s never too late to try something new

I often hear people say, ‘I’m too old’ or ‘I’ve left it too late’. Well I simply do not agree with those sentiments, I prescribe to the ‘it’s never too late to learn something new’ school of life. 

I am nearer 70 than 60, thankfully I am reasonably fit and I am as keen as ever to try something new. 

This very week I have tried bowls for the first time. My cricketing days are grinding to a halt due to dodgy knees, but it does not mean I cannot try another sport. The members of Torquay Bowling Club in Belgrave Road, could not have been more welcoming

If you need more encouragement, well I have been scouring the headlines to find further examples of the ‘never give up’ mentality. There are so many in so many different walks of life and not all need you to be as fit as a butchers dog! 

Painting for example, now I can’t paint to save my life but Sean Drumm from Shropshire, who is now 72, was a keen artist as a young man but family commitments and his career made him put his painting on hold. 

He  dusted off his easel six years ago and has said recent success has been “amazing”. He has received commissions from as far afield as Europe after taking up his pastime again. So it has worked out for him.

Now swimming is well known to be good for you and there are various ways to enjoy the sport. In Spain, eight women between the ages of 50 and 60 have dedicated themselves to synchronised swimming. They call themselves "The Dragonflies". 

 It’s a wonderful example of how sports can bring people together and inspire personal growth at any age. 

Unfortunately, there is no local club for artistic swimming, but Torquay Leander and Oddicombe Swimming Clubs are both based at the Plainmoor pool and welcome seasoned swimmers as members.

A recent study suggests that older people who feel their life still has purpose are less likely to get memory loss. Writing was another thing I always enjoyed  and I have certainly found that the regular article I write here in the Torbay Weekly has got my mind working hard. 

Regular physical activity can also help reduce the risk of dementia. A 2019 study showed that aerobic exercise may help, the part of the brain that controls memory.

There are lots of places in South Devon where seniors can find a physical activity to suit. 

Have you ever considered a dance class? Or Pilates, which is all about slow, controlled movements to help build up your core muscle strength or yoga which concentrates on gentle stretching to boost your flexibility and balance. 

There are even seated exercise classes which are gentle, chair-based exercises which are great for improving your posture and balance, and are suitable for people with reduced mobility. 

Or maybe try Tai Chi, which originates from Ancient China and is now practised by older people around the world and is known for its effects on mental wellbeing, helping you to relax and de-stress.  

My own village has a walking group, which is great for meeting people and keeping fit. I understand there is often a chance to stop for a hot drink and a cake along the way! If you still crave a more athletic challenge there is both walking football and tennis or how about a Zumba class.

Something else you could try is training as a radio presenter here at Torbay Hospital Radio. We have presenters of all ages, some who are well into their seventies. On a Monday Night our own ‘Marldon Man’ takes to the air, his actual age is a closely guarded secret, but he is our own golden oldie. Why not give it a try, visit our website to find out how. If I can do it, anyone can.