There is a strong, active group of post-65ers who have gone into retirement looking to ramp up their lives, rather than slow down.
After a working life characterised by long hours, family commitments and being time-poor, they find a new freedom when they step away from formal work.
But once the jobs they have put off for years have been done - renovating the kitchen, sorting out the garden, looking after the grandchildren - they cast about for new stimuli.
Whether they are adventure loving or home-bodies, the world is now their oyster. These are the years when, to paraphrase The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, the leaves don’t have to fall from the tree. The get-up-and-go-ness of the film and its predecessor speak volumes about how we now approach this chapter in life. We are more likely to be climbing mountains or taking up part-time jobs than sitting around waiting to die.
The $1.8 million which has been allocated to 10 local councils to fund activities for over 65s has the potential to open up new worlds. Not all retirees are flush with cash - although they may be flush with time and looking for ways to keep physically active.
The aim of the grant is to set up local, community-based activities for older residents to help them increase their levels of physical fitness.
While swimming, soccer, volleyball, water aerobics, dancing, yoga, cycling and walking have been cited as possibilities for new programmes, the list is in fact just a starting point.
Ballroom dancing and line dancing, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing or outdoor group exercises (for those that are intimidated by or loathe the gym) could all go on the list.
You could also add an adult play gym or series of exercise stations in a park that anybody can use. For, while this funding will target a specific group, as a population the rate of obesity and obesity-related illnesses are on the rise. If there are a few things in there that a younger crowd could sign up for, that would be a bonus.
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