Relocating at 70.

[Papyrophile]

We don't want to stay where we live in SE Cornwall, because all our friends live north of the M4/5. We're happy to move, but would love to know how we can integrate quickly into our chosen area. In your view what helps an oldish couple make connections?

Ask on the local FB pages about friendship groups and/or volunteering.

We want to relocate to a completely different area when we'll be in our late 60s and this is what we intend to do.

Agree volunteering. People who do that are usually quite sociable and welcoming and are happy to meet new people.

Joining in things, volunteering, finding a local community with a good number of older people - a U3A group locally for example

Definitely moving to a 'commuinity feel' area like some villages, where there are lots of opportunities to get involved - local church, residents associations, local charities. Ones which have lots of village events etc

I live in a newish build development and nearly all of my neighbours in my road moved here when they were about 68 to 76 and they’ve integrated into the community really well.
Some have dogs which has helped, the others have joined stuff.

I shall look for a good Pilates group for a starting point, and I'm open to all the other off the wall ideas. I thought I should probably volunteer at the local theatre too. Not religious; more arts/literature oriented.

My parents moved in their mid-seventies. Mum goes to an art class, Dad plays golf - they also support the local community centre by donating and going to see all of the performances and activities that they put on.

We have a dog too! Dogs are great conversation starters in my experience.

I’m not your age but I always make good friends when I join gyms. I gave a bunch of friends I’ve made at my twice weekly Aqua aerobics class. It’s mostly ladies that do it and they range in age from about 40 to early 80’s.

DH is planning to join the local cricket and rugby clubs too. We are quite outgoing and friendly so we talk to anyone and everyone.

I think you’ll soon make friend in your new area.

Join the U3A.

Join local groups: keep fit, gardening club, WI etc.

Join a church.

Help with the fete, firework night etc.

Thank you @YourPeppyAmberTraybake . That is a really kind post and much appreciated.

When you are checking out areas search the web and the local community notice boards to get a feel for a place - how much is happening that you could join in with

WI is another option.

U3A is a definite, plus I'll sign up to a weekly Spanish class. I am so looking forward to something new!

I joined a litter picking group, volunteer for the National Trust at the local castle, Britain in Bloom, the choir, a sea swimming group, the local marine wildlife trust and am on the fundraising committee for a local building we're hoping to turn into a community hub. The single best thing has been the litter picking group - people of all ages, outdoors, dogs come along too, like minded people and whilst we're picking passers by stop for a chat. After a few months I felt like I'd been here forever.

You sound very sociable and keen to get involved so I think your new town will be lucky to have you. My only tip would be to be careful what you sign up for early on because you could end up too busy. Good luck in your new home.

Uwhich town are you moving to