Staying active is one of the most important ways to support health and independence in later life. For the elderly, regular movement – even in small amounts – can bring physical, emotional, and mental benefits. At Burleys Home Care, we provide care across Ringwood, Christchurch, and the New Forest, and we know just how much a gentle walk, a stretch, or even a social outing can boost confidence and wellbeing.
Whether your loved one enjoys the outdoors, prefers gentle activities at home, or likes being part of a class or club, there are plenty of ways to stay active locally.
Why staying active matters
Staying active doesn’t mean intense workouts. For the elderly, even light daily movement can help improve balance and mobility, reduce the risk of falls, ease the symptoms of long-term conditions like arthritis or diabetes, and support overall wellbeing.
There’s also the emotional side of staying active – fresh air, routine, and interaction with others can all help reduce loneliness and support mental health. We encourage safe, suitable activity as part of our personalised home care plans, tailored to what each person enjoys and feels comfortable with.
Local parks and walking spots
We’re fortunate to be based in such a beautiful part of the country. From Ringwood to Christchurch and throughout the New Forest, there are so many green spaces to enjoy – whether for a walk, a chat on a bench, or simply to enjoy the surroundings.
Avon Heath Country Park is a favourite with many of our clients. It’s peaceful, has flat paths, and is perfect for a short stroll or outing. Nearby, Moors Valley Country Park has accessible trails and mobility scooter hire, making it a fantastic spot for older adults who may need a little extra support getting around.
In Christchurch, the Quay and Priory Gardens are ideal for a gentle walk, with views of the water and lovely gardens to enjoy. Hengistbury Head is another option, offering wide paths and beautiful coastal scenery.
And of course, there’s the New Forest National Park. With its shaded woodlands, and quiet picnic spots, the forest is a peaceful and accessible place to enjoy nature. Our carers are often out and about in these local spots, supporting clients to enjoy time outside and stay connected to the community.
Leisure centres and local classes
For those who like a bit more structure, local leisure centres offer a variety of gentle activities suited to older adults:
- Ringwood Health & Leisure Centre – Offers senior-friendly classes such as yoga, aqua aerobics, and seated fitness sessions, as well as access to swimming and gym facilities.
Visit their website
- David Lloyd Ringwood – A premium health club with superb facilities, including a swimming pool, spa, group classes, and social spaces. It’s a great choice for those looking for gentle exercise and has many classes suitable for beginners or those who are less mobile. The coffee shop inside is a wonderful place to socialise afterwards with an extensive lunch menu.
Explore David Lloyd Ringwood
- Christchurch Leisure Centre – Provides similar classes and facilities, with a focus on wellbeing and community support.
Find out more
These local facilities offer a welcoming environment and are ideal for maintaining fitness at a gentle pace.
Staying active at home
Not every older adult wants to go out, and that’s okay too. There are plenty of ways to stay active from the comfort of home.
Simple seated exercises, stretching, light household tasks like gardening or folding laundry, and even dancing to the radio can all help maintain strength and movement. Tools like pedal exercisers, resistance bands, and support rails can be great additions to the home to encourage safe activity.
Our carers often help clients build movement into their daily routines – whether that’s walking to the garden, encouraging light activity, or joining in with home-based exercises.
How Burleys Home Care can help
At Burleys, we support older adults in Ringwood, Christchurch, and the wider New Forest to stay active, confident, and connected – all from the comfort and familiarity of their own homes.
Whether your loved one needs a little encouragement to stay mobile, support with outings, or companionship for exercise classes or walks, our team is here to help. Every care plan is tailored to the person – and that includes finding enjoyable, safe ways to keep active.
We can also support with transport, mobility, and encouragement, making it easier for people to keep doing the things they enjoy.
Looking for support?
If you’d like to find out more about how we can help your loved one stay active, healthy and independent at home, we’d be happy to talk.
Call us on 01425 470411 to learn more.
Burleys Home Care – supporting independence, mobility, and wellbeing.