Men's Space

Open Age Men’s Space provides a ‘space’ (a range of activities) for older men to get together and participate in a wide range of specially-designed creative, social, physical and learning activities with a holistic person-centred approach.

This is done in a stepwise fashion of engagement, support and integration and at a suitable individual pace. Taking time enables older men to build their confidence, identify barriers and discover/re-discover skills, through positive and motivating conversations.

What to expect when you are a member of this group:

Develop social relationships through group activities by connecting or reconnecting to the communities while meeting people from diverse backgrounds in a wide range of social groups and drop-in sessions in a variety of settings.

Become more active – by engaging in regular physical activities ranging from walking football, exercise classes and moderate chair-based classes for men less mobile who may be referred directly by their GPs.

Participate in health and wellbeing workshops such as: relaxation classes and low mood workshops; experience the gardening project’s calming space and learn how to grow vegetables & herbs; promote independence by learning to cook healthy meals and enjoy eating out at a local restaurant.

Learn a new skill and increase your confidence by attending classes such as Computers, IPADs and Smart Phone for beginners; learn to play a musical instrument, and be part of a music band and paly at end of term events if desired; maintain conversational skills in discussions and share memories within reminiscence groups.

Making a contribution by helping out at sessions or by welcoming other new members to the groups; sharing information and passing on your own life experiences with other like-minded members.

For more information please contact:

Russell John:

• Tel: 020 4516 9977
• Email:rjohn@openage.org.uk

Case Study: Albert’s Story

Albert to the left, Russell to the right at Westminster Active Awards

Albert, 74, was referred to Open Age by his GP after being identified as at risk of isolation. His long-term health issues had contributed to a reluctance to leave his home, and he spent most of his time in front of the computer screen. His GP felt that engaging with the Open Age Men’s Programme could help rebuild his confidence, support his mental health, and encourage him to socialise again.

When we first visited Albert, he was hesitant about attending activities outside his flat. With gentle encouragement, Albert agreed to try an IT course to extend his skills. Over six weeks, his confidence grew as he reconnected with his interests and others. This inspired him to explore further activities within the Men’s Space programme.

Albert’s passion for cooking led him to join the men’s cooking group, where he became an active participant. He went on to contribute several recipes to the Open Age Cookbook, proud to share his creativity with others. From there, he began attending exercise, meditation, and other classes, steadily rebuilding his physical health, wellbeing, and sense of purpose.

Albert himself described the impact of Open Age:

“My name is Albert, I attend a few of the Open Age classes you coordinate. I am writing because I need to express my gratitude, and how I feel about the Open Age charity, all the staff at Open Age, and yourself Russell in particular. As you know, I attend cooking, exercise, meditation, Men’s Space, and more. When you first came to see me, I could hardly climb up my stairs without great chest tightness. With your help, encouragement, and personal advice, my physical and mental health has improved immensely, to the point that I feel like a new man. At first, I had to try to attend the classes at the Open Age Centre and get out of the house. Now I am eager. I look forward to getting out of the house and live a normal, enjoyable life. I feel completely different, full of energy and improving all the time.”

Albert’s story highlights the profound impact of community engagement, encouragement, and tailored opportunities to build confidence and wellbeing. From isolation to active participation, Albert has rediscovered joy, energy, and a renewed sense of life.