Week 4: Strategies for being socially engaged

Looking after your physical and mental health is important for successful ageing, but another piece of the puzzle is staying socially engaged. This means being active in your community, talking to others, and getting involved in things that interest you.

This week:

• Professor of Old Age Psychiatry Brian Lawlor explores this idea of ‘social engagement’ and why it is important for successful ageing.
• Assistant Professor in Sociology Richard Layte delves into the relationship between social participation and social capital.
• What are common constraints to getting engaged? Professor in Social Policy and Ageing Virpi Timonen looks at the virtuous cycle of engagement.
• Is it too late to follow your dreams? Research Assistant Professor in Psychology Sabina Brennan is back with research into reaching aspirations in later life.
• Helping you set goals is Liz Harper from Age and Opportunity, who gives you practical tips for making plans.
• Taking part in research is another way that you can give back for generations to come. Dr Anne Nolan describes why this is important and the benefits of taking part in research.