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Articles
Lifestyle
Click here to read all of our lifestyle articles, from fashion and housing to gardening and crafts.
Read moreMoney
Read about personal finance, from saving for retirement to finding the best life insurance.
Read moreRelationships
Relationships are key to our mental and physical wellbeing. Click here to read our articles.
Read moreTravel
Yearn to escape to distant lands? Retirement travel and holidays have never been more popular.
Read moreWork
See our work-related articles, from retirement planning to creating a business in later life.
Read moreMirthy's 2022: A Year of Achievements, Growth and Partnerships
As the year comes to a close, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the achievements and milestones we've reached at Mirthy in 2022. It's been a busy and rewarding year for us and we're grateful for the support of our members and partners.
Poetry Challenge: Remembrance Day
Read all the community submissions from our Poetry Challenge in October 2022 about Remembrance Day for the Mirthy Explorer.
Poetry Challenge: Bonfire Night
In October 2022, Head of Community Engagement, Mahalia set a challenge to the community to write poetry about bonfire night for the Mirthy Explorer.
Member Spotlight: Ann
In this article, Abbie (Community and Events Manager) speaks to Ann about the role Mirthy has played in her life since becoming a member.
Yoga for Older People: The Beginner's Guide
If you want to start exercising and wonder whether yoga is appropriate for older people, read this guide for an introduction to the practice.
How to Run a Book Club: 5 Top Tips
Want to know how to run a book club? Abbie Jessop, Mirthy's Community and Events Manager, shares her 5 top tips!
Life After 50: What to Expect
Life after 50 can be a daunting prospect. In this article, we explore this important life chapter and potential points for consideration.
4 of the Best Places to Retire in the World
Wondering about the best places to retire in the world? Here are 4 recommendations that might just provide some inspiration for an overseas adventure.
Singles Holidays for Over 50s: The Best Breaks for Solo Travellers
Singles holidays for over 50s are increasingly popular as people explore the world with others their own age. So if you're a solo traveller, read our handy guide.
Living on a Narrowboat in Retirement
Many dream of adventure after giving up work and living on a narrowboat in retirement falls firmly into that category. Click here for helpful hints and advice if you're considering this lifestyle.
Over 60s Benefits: Understanding Your Entitlements
When we reach a certain age, we're entitled to certain help and assistance, so understanding your over 60s benefits is essential. Click here to learn more.
Facing an Unhappy Marriage in Retirement? You Are Not Alone
If you are experiencing an unhappy marriage in retirement, know that you are not alone. In this article, we explore the potential causes of discontent, and solutions to get your relationship back on track.
Retirement Depression: Managing Your Mental Health
Retirement depression is a prevalent problem among older adults. This article explores the topic, along with tips for managing your mental health.
7 Vital Health Checks for Over 50s
There are certain core health checks for over 50s, which are especially important as preventative medical measures. Click here to learn what they are.
Pilates for Over 50s – What You Need to Know
Are you wondering about the suitability of Pilates for over 50s? In this guide, we learn whether it's an appropriate exercise for older adults.
Downsizing for Retirement – Deciding When It's Right
Downsizing for retirement is a tricky decision. In this article, we'll investigate the various considerations before making the big move.
Loneliness in Later Life: The Essential Guide
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week and its focus on loneliness, this article looks at why social isolation is an issue and what we can do about it.
How to Age Well: Finding Joy in Retirement
If you're wondering how to age well and enjoy a happy, healthy retirement, look no further! In this article, Maggy Pigott, author of 'How to Age Joyfully', breaks down her best suggestions.
8 Potential Jobs for Retired Teachers: Ideas to Get You Started
There are many potential jobs for retired teachers. So, if you are looking to capitalise on your educational experience, read the following article for some inspiration.
Ageism in the Workplace: How It Affects Older Adults
Sadly, ageism in the workplace continues to be common issue, especially among older employees. Click here to learn more about the topic and what you can do when facing discrimination.
The Post-Retirement Novel
Are you a literature lover? Read about how Tricia Cresswell discovered creative writing in retirement and penned The Midwife, her debut novel!
10 of the Best Stately Homes to Visit in the UK
Want an educational, fun-filled day out? Click here to see some of the best stately homes the UK has to offer.
Second Time Around: How to Start a Successful Encore Career
An encore career is an increasingly popular choice for those soon-to-be or currently retired. Click here to learn more about second careers, as we explore your options.
Learning Piano as an Older Adult: The Ultimate Guide
Learning piano as an older adult can bring a host of health and wellbeing benefits - but can you pick it up at any age? This article provides the answer.
6 Different Types of Retirement
The decision to leave the working world provides more options than you might expect. Click here to read about 6 different types of retirement.
Being Single at 50 Plus: An Essential Guide
We explore being single at 50 plus and what this means for those looking to remain independent, or re-enter the relationship world. Click here to learn more.
How to Deal With a Disrespectful Grown Child
Every part of parenting has its challenges, but knowing how to deal with a disrespectful grown child can be one of the hardest aspects of the role. Click here for more.
Tracing the History of My House
Unravelling the history of your house can often lead to some fascinating discoveries about the building itself and the people that lived within it. Click here to learn more.
Learning a Foreign Language at an Older Age
Interested in learning a foreign language at an older age? Click here to read Sue's experience and advice on the subject.
Volunteering With Animals
Volunteering with animals can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and there are many opportunities available for eager helpers. Click here to learn more.
An Interview With Mirthy Fitness Host, Helen Tudge
An interview with Helen Tudge, a Mirthy Fitness host who leads four Pilates-based classes a week on the events programme.
6 of the Best Places to Retire in the UK
Wondering about the best places to retire in the UK? Check out this list to see our six top picks.
How to Cope With Not Seeing Your Grandchildren
Learning how to cope with not seeing your grandchildren is vital in the case of family discord or relocation. In this article, we explore the topic.
5 Emotional Signs You Need to Retire
Retirement planning arguably starts with you identifying the signs that it’s nearly time to give up work for good. Click here to learn more.
Planting Herbs: Pots, Beds, Compost and More!
Planting herbs is an essential part of gardening. Learn how to do it effectively in this essential guide, by Lynda Warren.
How to Start Running at 50 Plus
Wondering how to start running at 50 plus? In this article, Sue explains everything you need to know to give it a go!
Walking Holidays: The Best Type of Slow Travel
Walking holidays provide the perfect slow travel experience, allowing you to meet new people and enjoy the view along the way. Click here for more.
How to Make Money in Retirement
Many of us want to know how to make money in retirement to supplement a pension or improve our overall quality of life. In this guide, we'll explore some options.
Divorce at 50 Plus: Breaking up in Later Life
Divorce at 50 plus is becoming increasingly widespread and accepted. However, it can be an incredibly difficult transition for those involved. Click here to learn more.
How to Become a Tour Guide
Interested in how to become a tour guide? Click here to learn about the types of role, in-demand skills and typical accreditations.
Recovering History’s Hidden Women
Annie Garthwaite, author of the acclaimed historical fiction, CECILY reflects on the need to recover women’s stories and argues that the story of Cecily Neville, matriarch of the House of York during the 15th century Wars of the Roses, is ripe for retelling.
Getting a Dog: Information and Advice for New Owners
Getting a dog is a big decision and one that can have a significant effect on your lifestyle. In this guide, we cover all the considerations for would-be owners.
Mentoring Young People – The Essential Guide
Mentoring young people is not only personally rewarding, but can have a hugely positive impact on society. Click here to learn more.
The 7 Best Places to Retire in Europe
Wondering about the best places to retire in Europe? This article has you covered, as we consider lifestyle, visas and finances.
Herb Cuttings: How to Propagate Your Own Plants at Home
In this article, Lynda Warren shows us how to use herb cuttings to propagate our own supply of plants at home.
Solo Travel Over 50 - My Experience Exploring the World
Travelling solo can be a liberating experience. In this article, Pen Turner continues with her theme of the 'golden gap year', drawing on personal experience to explore the pros and cons of travelling alone.
Shared Reading: Another Way to Enjoy Your Favourite Books
Shared Reading is a unique experience allowing us to enjoy our favourite books in a group setting. Join Reader Leader, Sally Jenkins, as she explores what it is and how to get started.
Knitting as a Hobby
Knitting as a hobby is growing in popularity. Not only is it a wonderful creative activity, but also beneficial for health and wellbeing.
Life After Retirement
Life after retirement can look very different and require time to adjust. Join Sandy, as she explores the topic and what it means to be retired.
Technology Classes for Older Adults - 8 Options to Level up Your Learning
Technology classes for older adults allow provide vital skills for personal and professional use. This article explores where to access these learning opportunities.
How to Start a Club, Organisation or Social Group
Do you have an interest or hobby that isn't catered for in your local area? Learn how to start a club, organisation or social group to meet the need!
Want to Keep Working After Retirement? You're Not Alone
Want to keep working after retirement? In this guide, we explore the pros and cons of continuing in employment.
Growing Herbs From Seed: A Gardener's Guide
Do you want to produce your own food? Start by growing herbs from seed! In this article, we explore everything you need to know.
Putting Life Insurance in Trust: How to Avoid 40% Inheritance Tax and Probate
In this article, we explore how putting life insurance in trust can avoid 40% inheritance tax and probate. Click here to learn more.
5 types of accommodation for the intrepid over 50s traveller
In this article, Pen takes a look at the different types of accommodation that you could use on your travel adventures.
Renting out your campervan or motorhome for extra retirement income
Do you own a motorhome that is sitting on your drive for half the year when it could be earning you money? This article explains what you need to know to start renting out your campervan or motorhome.
What Not to Do in Retirement - 5 Things to Avoid in Later Life
Want to know what NOT to do in retirement? Check out these top tips from the Mirthy community to make the most of your time.
An Introduction to Bloodline Wills
A bloodline will is invaluable as far as securing your estate and financially protecting your family is concerned. In this article, we explore whether or not they are the right choice for you.
Getting Started With Allotment Gardening
Interested in allotment gardening and the promise of growing your own fresh produce? Join Sue as she provides a detailed guide on the main considerations and how best to get started.
The Best Herbs to Grow: A Guide for Budding Gardeners
In the second article from this series on herbs, Lynda will describe the best herbs to grow at home, including a delicious recipe allowing you to savour the finished product.
Finding Love at 50 Plus
Dating expert Cynthia Spillman shows how to re-embark on the relationship journey in later life, revealing the steps you need to take to find love at 50 plus.
Writing a Memoir: How to Share Your Life Story
Many people may consider writing a memoir during their retirement, with much more free time to dedicate to the project. This article will explain what a memoir is and the reasons you may want to write one, providing essential advice for any budding author.
Growing Herbs at Home: A Beginner's Guide to Starting Your Own Garden
In this article, Lynda discusses her love of herbs and how to get started growing your own, along with a simple dessert recipe using your freshly-grown produce.
Ready, set, launch: The first year of Mirthy Book Club
The Mirthy Book Club has been running since April 2021. For anyone who has joined us from the start, or for any new members wondering what it’s all about, let’s look back at some of the highlights from this year.
Member Spotlight: Jane
In this interview with Community and Events Manager, Abbie, one of Mirthy's super users, Jane gives us some insight into her retirement, and how Mirthy came into her life...
Expedition Cruising: Everything You Need to Know
In this article, Sue explores the topic of expedition cruising - what it is, if it's for you, and the main considerations before booking.
This Time Last Year
With a new year comes a time to reflect on the progress of the year just past, the accomplishments we have made, and the growth of our wonderful community.
Free Courses for Over 60s – Our Essential Guide
If you'd like to explore your options for further learning, there are often free courses for over 60s to satisfy even the most curious minds. Click here to consult our essential guide.
8 Companies Employing Older Workers in the UK
Companies employing older workers are becoming increasingly common as careers extend in duration. In this guide, we present 8 different potential employers.
Church Bell Ringing Explained
Church bell ringing is a popular hobby with many passionate practitioners. In this guide, veteran bell ringer, Sally Jenkins, explores what it takes to get going.
Walking in the Namib Desert: The Adventure of a Lifetime
Namibia is a country of compelling beauty and unconfined space. Join Jenny Bowen as she embarks on a walking adventure in the Namib Desert.
Storytelling Café: Breaking News From the North Pole
A story that was enjoyed by the December Storytelling Café. Told by Sandy Leong, adapted from a story that is in the public domain.
Becoming a Teacher Later in Life
Becoming a teacher later in life isn't as impossible as you might think. In this guide, we investigate your options for retraining and career-changing.
5 Incredible Ideas to Add to Your Retirement Bucket List
Do you have any adventurous items on your retirement bucket list? In this article, we asked the Mirthy community for their ideas.
Volunteering in Retirement: How to Make a Difference
Volunteering in retirement is a wonderful way to capitalise on existing skills and knowledge whilst also making a difference. Let's look at some popular opportunities in this essential guide.
Over 50s Apprenticeship Schemes
Over 50s apprenticeship schemes are becoming increasingly common as older adults retrain and change careers in later life. Click here to learn more.
Grandparents’ Rights in the UK: A Beginner's Guide
Grandparents’ rights can be an overwhelming, delicate subject for many. If you find yourself in the unfortunate event of a family dispute, it’s important that you know where you stand.
Enjoying Retirement: The Ultimate Guide
Enjoying retirement doesn't necessarily mean becoming more sedentary, as we'll discover in this guide, which details exactly how to remain happy and healthy.
Retraining at 50 and Above – Your Options for the Future
Fancy a job switch or career change? Retraining at 50 and above is an increasingly viable option. Start your journey here.
10 Great Ways to Create a Hedgehog Friendly Garden
Discover how to create a hedgehog friendly garden with these 10 top tips, supporting this wonderful animal from its worrying population decline.
7 Potential Low Stress Jobs After Retirement
If you want to supplement your pension, gradually step back from work or simply remain as active as possible, consider these 7 potential low stress jobs after retirement
Making Bath Salts at Home: The Essential Guide
A relaxing bath is the ultimate expression of self-care. To make the experience even more enjoyable, bath salts are often added. But what are they and which ones are best?
The Golden Gap Year
In this article, Pen Turner tells of her decision to uproot her life in her mid-fifties, embarking on a golden gap year of world travel and more importantly, how you can too!
Giraffe Encounters in the Kingdom of Eswatini
Join Jenny Bowen as she recounts one of her hikes through The Kingdom of Eswatini and her up-close encounters with its resident Giraffe
Gongoozling for Beginners
In this article. Neil gives us an insight into his experience of life on a boat and tips on how you can get into 'gongoozling' yourself...
10 Little-Known Benefits of Hand Massage
We all know about having luxury pamper sessions with Hand Massage as an occasional treat. However, Hand Massage should be very therapeutic not just for holidays. Hand Massage can be very useful because hands are so accessible. Even though hands are used all the time, they can be often neglected.
Life in Lockdown: Beauty On Our Doorstep
“You must all stay at home!” I don’t think any of us will ever forget the night of Boris’s historic announcement - 23rd March 2020 - that triggered the first Covid lockdown. Read Sue's account of how she managed to stay positive during lockdown, and the beauty she found in her local area.
7 Air Travel Tips for the Infrequent Flyer
Pen was in her fifties when she decided give up her job and sell her house. She spent the next six months travelling around the world, visiting friends who had only been a name on an email and doing some of the things she had promised herself she would do 'one day' – all accompanied by a small toy penguin called Scott.
Member Spotlight: Anna
Community and Events Manager, Abbie spoke to Mirthy member, Anna to talk retirement, life during the pandemic, and what she thinks about Mirthy...
Winter Travel Destinations in the UK
With Covid making travel abroad difficult, we at Mirthy have compiled a list of UK based destinations which make glorious winter travel destinations, whether you are looking for a warm drink and a cosy fireplace, sparkly festive lights, picturesque frosty walks, or shopping galore, the UK boasts destinations fit for any traveler in the winter months.
Member Spotlight: Martin
The second in our series of member interviews with community and events manager, Abbie. Find out what Martin had to say about Mirthy...
Delving into the Past: My Family History Research
A few years after Sue's dad died, she decided to start tracing her family tree. This sparked questions such as, "Why on earth hadn’t I asked him more while he was still alive?" and "How many times have those researching their family histories asked themselves that question?" Sue explains the process in this article on 'Delving into the Past'.
Member Spotlight: Debbie
As part of our customer development programme, our community and events manager, Abbie, conducted some interviews with some of our members. First up is Debbie...
Autumn/Winter Fashion for Women Over 50
As the seasons change and you begin to dig out warmer clothes for the colder weather, it can be challenging to find interesting looks that show your identity, while still being practical and “age-appropriate”. In this article, we explore the options.
Exercise Over 50: An Introductory Guide
Are you starting to exercise over 50? It’s imperative to invest in our health and wellbeing at any age, but the stakes only increase in later life. If you’re keen to become more active, this introductory guide is for you.
The Retirement Guide (2021)
Are you enjoying an active retirement or planning your escape from the working world? In this guide, we’ll consider how to make the most of your golden years.
Finding Social Clubs and Groups in Later Life: The Beginner’s Guide
We all benefit from being active, social participants in our community. Therefore, in this article, we’ll explore social clubs and groups for retirees and see how we can all become more involved and engaged in our local area.
Local History: The Researcher's Guide
Curious about local history? In this guide, public speaker & Mirthy member Margaret Mills investigates this rewarding pursuit & what it takes to get started
Wondering What to Do in Retirement? Focus on the Following 9 Things
Have you eagerly anticipated what to do in retirement, but when the time finally arrives, are unsure how to use all the extra hours? If so, click here.
Retirement Travel and Holidays
What better way to enjoy retirement than with travel and holidays? Click here for an overview.
Silver Entrepreneurship: Starting a Business as an Older Adult
Entrepreneurship for older adults is an increasingly viable option. To learn more about getting started in business in later life, click here.
The Ultimate Grandparents Guide
Are you a new grandparent? Seeing your children’s children for the first time is a huge milestone in life. Click here to read our guide.
Arts and Crafts for Adults
Do you harbour hidden creativity; an inner van Gogh perhaps? If so, arts and crafts may be just the ticket. Use this article to unlock some inspiration!
Over 50’s Dating: Looking for Love
Interested in over 50's dating? Relationships change as we age, so in this guide we look a how to meet someone special in later life. Click here for more.
What Everyone Should Know About Retirement Homes
Looking for information on retirement homes? Read this introductory guide to discover why so many people in later life choose this comfortable, safe option
The 23 Best Activities for Elderly People
Looking for a list of activities for elderly people or perhaps your parents? In this article, we cover a range of pursuits to improve health and happiness.
Respite Care: The Essential Guide
Respite care is essential to provide breaks to carers and their loved ones. For more information on the services available, click here.
The Carers Guide
Carers help millions of people enjoy a good quality of life every day. In this guide, we’ll cover everything about the role and what support is available.
Changing Career at 50 and Above: An Occupational Guide
Changing career at 50 is increasingly common as older adults seek to transition to new work. But it’s a challenging process. Click here to learn more.
Three Inspirational TED Talks for Later Life
Hearing another human giving a talk is a timeless and engaging activity. So, here are three inspirational TED talks for later life. Click to watch.
Three Secrets for a Healthy Mind and Body
It's imperative to maintain a healthy mind and body, especially as we get older. In this article we look at three important factors we need to consider.
An Introduction to Public Speakers
Mirthy speakers provide online events every week to both entertain and inform. To learn more about the process, click here.
The Importance of Staying Active in Later Life
This article explores the notion of staying active in later life along with practical steps on staying independent as we age. Click here to read more.
The Story of Book Clubs
Are you keen to meet new people while reminiscing over your favourite read? If so, a book club might be just the ticket. Click here to learn more.
Speech Writing and Editing
Looking for speech writing and editing advice? You're in the right place. To ensure that your public speaking performance is up to par for those all-important Mirthy events, click here.
10 Public Speaking Tips for an Entertaining Talk
Looking for public speaking tips? You're in the right place. Learn the techniques you need to deliver a memorable and engaging talk.
Tracing Your Family Tree
An article from Mirthy member, Kath Reynolds, about tracing your family tree. Click here to learn more.
The Battle of Cape Matapan: March 28 to 29, 1941
An article summarising the Battle of Cape Matapan: March 28 to 29, 1941.
Public Speaker Announcement: Expect the Unexpected
In this article, Mirthy member Tony Griffith draws on his public speaking experience and cautions fellow speakers to expect the unexpected.
From Cop to Coppicer
In this article, community member James Ellson describes his transition from police work to smallholder and now writer. Click here to learn more.
Origin of a Stage Name: How We Became Bob and Dot
Graham Towse and Bronwen Harrison, as partners in Sun Jester since the mid-1990’s, offer education sessions & music and arts performances.
Battle of Austerlitz – 2 December 1805
A summary of the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805 by Mirthy community member, Tim Barney. Click here to learn more.
Staying Connected This Christmas
Christmas is an important time to reconnect with friends and family. Click here to learn more.
The Precedence of the Unprecedented
This year has truly been a period of history in the making. An incredible amount of change in one year. A year of uprooting, unsettlement and upheaval.
The Lioness Nearly Ate My Bacon
In this article, Mirthy member and public speaker Jenny Bowen recounts her time in Zimbabwe and a culinary encounter with a group of lions.
Why I Became a Speaker
In this community article, Brenda Cameron explains how she began public speaking, having overcome a chronic illness known as ME. Click here to learn more.
Retired? Who’s Retired?
In this article, Neil Sadler, formerly an Inspector in the Sussex Police, recounts how he first got started with public speaking. Click here for more.
Storytelling
In this article, Mirthy member and public speaker Simon Waterfield shows how stories exist all around us, just waiting to be told. Click here for more.
Cultural Evolution: Circa 60,000 Years Ago to 12,000 Years Ago
In this article, Neil Meldrum investigates the origins of human creativity and cultural evolution from 60,000 to 12,000 years ago.
Day Centres for Older Adults
Day centres for older adults are an essential part of social care in the UK. So if you or a loved one needs a break, click here to learn more.
The Local Quiz Guide
Looking to find or start a local quiz? Quizzes are extremely popular within the Mirthy community. Click here to learn more!
In the Beginning: The Cultural Evolution of Mankind
In this article, Neil Meldrum examines the cultural evolution of Mankind, from the time that we became modern humans, or Homo Sapiens.
Public Speaking: A Life on the Road
Here's a "month in the life" article by Kath Reynolds, a public speaker who delivers between 8-10 talks every week! Click here to read more.
Activities for a Winter Lockdown
Here are some activities to boost spirits and keep going in these incredibly tough times.
Introducing the Queen Victoria's Consort
Queen Victoria's Consort is made up of some of the country’s leading early brass musicians and directed by Andy Kershaw.
Battle of Pavia - February 25, 1525
Italian Wars of the Sixteenth Century: First War between François I of France and Habsburg Emperor Charles V, 1521 - 1526.
The Retreat from Kabul, January 6 to 13, 1842
Major General Sir William Elphinstone with 4,500 regular soldiers and approximately 14,000 civilians, versus Wazir Akbar Khan and other Afghan chieftains with an unknown number of Ghilzai irregular fighters, possibly as many as 30,000.
The Christmas Truce
We are all familiar with the popularised image of the 1914 ‘Christmas Truce’: the sight of soldiers on both sides spontaneously rising from their trenches and fraternising in no man’s land. Click here to learn more about this wartime story.
Lockdown Reading
A positive aspect of lockdown has been the increased time available for reading. Check out the following book recommendations by Sally Jenkins.
Ascension Island
This article was written by Baz Hamblin, a navigator for the RAF for 25 years who then found himself running a training company for airline pilots for 25 years after doing a favour for a friend.
Comfortless Cove Fever Station
With the coronavirus putting countries around the world in lockdown, can the fever station at Comfortless Cove, Ascension Island, where sailors in the 19th century were forced to quarantine, offer us lessons on how to fight back?
My First Hundred Talks
Successful speaking is about more than what you say. It’s about engaging with your audience, says public speaker, Mike Brook.
March Winds Doth Blow
'Who could have guessed how much the Coronavirus situation would have turned our lives around?', asks Mirthy community member, Kath Reynolds.
Solitude - A Short Essay
I walk slowly through the park. A feeling of ineffable sadness overwhelms me. The feeling of grief gets stronger and I am close to tears...
'The Strangest of Christmases' - SHORTLIST
Introducing entries for the Mirthy community Christmas competition!
'The Strangest of Christmases' - WINNERS
Here we have the winners of the Mirthy community Christmas competition!