Getting Active After 60: Start Where You Are

Living well as we age starts with the life we want to keep participating in: time with friends, an outing with grandchildren, a favorite hobby, or everyday routines at home. Your starting point should reflect your interests, abilities, and circumstances.

This first installment of Living Well as We Age is an invitation to make one manageable choice. You do not need to buy a membership before exploring your options. Begin with what you want help doing, then find an activity and setting that suit you.

Practical steps

Build a starting point you can return to.

Choose a reason that matters to you

Write down one thing you would like to do more comfortably or more often. It might be visiting a park, joining a group, or keeping up with a hobby. Use that goal when talking with an instructor or healthcare professional; it gives the conversation a practical focus.

Understand the long-term activity goal

For adults 65 and older, CDC guidance includes at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, muscle-strengthening activity on at least two days, and balance activities. These are goals to work toward, not an entry requirement. Be as active as your abilities and health conditions allow; some activity is better than none.

Source: CDC: Older Adult Activity ↗

Make room for an individual starting point

If you have a chronic condition, disability, or concerns about starting, discuss suitable activities with your healthcare professional. Begin slowly and increase activity gradually. Ask whether an adapted class, seated option, or professional guidance would help you get started.

Source: CDC: Adding Activity as an Older Adult ↗

Ask about the experience before booking

Call the location and describe what you need. Can you observe a class first? Does the instructor offer seated and standing options? Are there stairs, accessible restrooms, places to rest, and convenient parking? Ask about the full cost, cancellation terms, and any membership requirement.

Put one realistic opportunity on the calendar

Choose an introductory visit, a conversation with an instructor, or an activity you already know is appropriate for you. Pick a time you can realistically protect. If company would make it easier, invite a friend. Afterward, note what felt welcoming, what was difficult, and what you would change next time.

Before your first visit

A few questions can make starting easier.

What would I like this activity to help me do?
Does the instructor have experience adapting activities for older adults?
Can I participate at my own pace or use a seated option?
What will the visit cost, and what am I committing to?
How will I get there and back?
Do I need advice about my health conditions or mobility before beginning?

Greater St. Louis considerations

Make the guidance local.

Gateway Region YMCA lists Active Older Adult programs, including group exercise and social activities. Check the branch nearest you for its current schedule, accessibility, membership requirements, and fees.
Aging Ahead publishes programs and activities for older adults. Look at the location and registration details rather than assuming every program is available in every community.
Caregivers deserve options too. When planning an activity together, ask what each person would enjoy and what support would make participation practical.

Authoritative sources

Continue your research.

Senior Guide STL provides educational information and does not replace individualized medical, legal, financial, tax, insurance, or care advice.