Free/cheap ideas to cheer someone up

[MrOllivander]

Long story!
Short version - my parents have been married 50 years and my mum is going into a care home
I'm looking for stuff for my dad, either to get him out to do stuff alone or for me to go with him. He likes most stuff but is limited by old injuries so can't walk for ages
Trying to find how to best support him. He has always done all the cooking and cleaning so that is covered

I've arranged a visit to my workplace next week (linked to one of his interests) and also a surprise drive of one of his favourite £££ cars

Would your dad consider a community choir? I'm in my sixties and have sung in a community choir for about 5 years (lots of members in their sixties/seventies) - you don't have to be able to read music. Even people who think they can't sing find that they carry a tune when surrounded by others! It's also a very sociable activity.

I don't think so
He likes pubs, food, simple stuff like feeding the ducks, cars, DIY, animals. Very hands on. Didn't retire until age 70
I thought swimming or dog walking with a rescue but his fitness isn't good enough for that
Will talk to anyone!

Are there any animal sanctuaries or community farms near where you live that might need a bit of voluntary work?

@YorkieTheRabbit

Are there any animal sanctuaries or community farms near where you live that might need a bit of voluntary work?

That's a good idea actually, I will have a look. His old injuries mean he struggles with some stuff but he's pretty happy pottering fixing things! He has WiFi and an iPhone and is ok with tech

with you saying animals and diy, I thought it might be something he could do, or a community garden. There is one in the village where I live, they do edible produce for people to help themselves to. It’s something that’s often asking for help with things like making raised beds or help with wedding/ planting etc

There's actually a dog rescue I volunteered for who are lovely, I didn't think of them

Have you heard of Men's Sheds ? Its a place to meet others, make and repair things. menssheds.org.uk/about/what-is-a-mens-shed/

My Dad is 79-my Mom passed away at Christmas so he's been trying to keep busy. One of things he really likes is a group that meets weekly to make things (out of wood and glass mainly) so maybe your Dad would enjoy something similar?

Ask at his GP practice to see if there is a gardening for health scheme running - they're great as they are designed for people who are not the fittest and usually run once or twice a week. A good opportunity to get out and meet people as well as some gentle exercise.

[quote TheDogsMother]Have you heard of Men's Sheds ? Its a place to meet others, make and repair things. menssheds.org.uk/about/what-is-a-mens-shed/[/quote]
This is kinda thing I meant!

[quote TheDogsMother]Have you heard of Men's Sheds ? Its a place to meet others, make and repair things. menssheds.org.uk/about/what-is-a-mens-shed/[/quote]
Oh thank you that's amazing! There are three nearby

Most pets rescues would welcome a volunteer to just sit with and socialise pets. Agree mens shed are also great.

@helpfulperson

Most pets rescues would welcome a volunteer to just sit with and socialise pets. Agree mens shed are also great.

That's fab. Basically if you give him a coffee and a dog, he won't leave He also has some bizarre thing where the most nervous or aggressive dog turns into the heart eyes emoji around him