W Bro Alain Gherson SLGR reports

Open Age was established in 1993 and is now celebrating over 25 years of championing an active life for older people.

They work across Kensington and Chelsea, Westminster, Hammersmith and Fulham with members aged from 50 to 104, helping sustain their physical and mental fitness, maintain an active lifestyle and develop new and stimulating interests. I was delighted to speak with Lain Cassidy, CEO Open Age. Lain was delighted to receive the London Freemasons grant.

Lain explained that despite Covid restrictions and the limited IT skills of some of their clients, Open Age is managing to reach out and help its core membership, combating loneliness and isolation at these trying times. There are facilitated telephone groups for the housebound and those unable to leave their homes.

Activities cover everything from fitness classes such as dance, chair exercise, yoga, walking groups to creative and performing arts sessions and talks or groups with speakers. Fun is always at the core of what they hope to achieve with all members leading a fulfilling and joyful life.

Lain went on to say that during normal operation they would provide up to 350 weekly activities from more than 60 sites. They are currently unable to run activities at any venue until government advice around social distancing changes. However, Open Age are delighted to be offering limited activities on line.

Also on offer, help to learn a new skill and increase your confidence by attending classes such as computers, IPADs and Smart Phone for beginners.

With the over 65 age community growing rapidly in London, I found the Open Age charity a wonderful and worthy charity, with an excellent informative and easy to navigate website.

This article is part of the Arena Magazine, Issue 43 January 2021 edition.
Arena Magazine is the official magazine of the London Freemasons – Metropolitan Grand Lodge and Metropolitan Grand Chapter of London.

Read more articles in the Arena Issue 43.