Retirement

Retirement can be a wonderful time, when you finally have the freedom to do all those things you've dreamed about. But with this can come worries, such as surviving on a reduced income, staying fit and healthy, or just getting out and meeting new friends. The sites listed below offer help and advice on these subjects.

Health and wellbeing

Growing older does not necessarily mean your health will suffer. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can improve stamina and boost energy levels. Follow these links to discover local fitness groups in your area and answer your health questions.

• Directgov – Over 50s health and well-being
• Keep Fit Association – have fun and make friends
• NHS Direct – your health questions answered
• BBC – guide to healthy living

Home and community

Take advantage of the many government grants to help you improve the safety, energy efficiency and general maintenance of your home.

• Directgov – Energy saving and generation
• Directgov – support and safety in the home
• Foundations – get help improving your home

Transport

If you are over 60 or registered as disabled you are entitled to a free local bus pass, so you can get out and explore the area. The sites below offer a range of advice, from planning your route to when you must apply for a new driving licence.

• Forum of Mobility Centres
• Age UK – practical and financial assistance with travelling
• Transport Direct – plan a journey door-to-door in the UK

Money

Everything from shopping to just keeping warm seems to cost more when you're living on a pension. There are a number of grants and benefits available to help you with these costs, so find out what you are entitled to.

• Your money – financial help and advice
• Directgov – Financial support and concessions
• HM Revenue and Customs – check if you qualify for tax credits
• Directgov – find out about carer's allowance, a taxable benefit for informal carers
• Directgov – Cold Weather Payment
• Directgov – Winter Fuel Payment

Pensions

• Managing your money – pensions

Adult learning

If you have always wanted to go back into education and never found the time, now could be your chance. You can learn in your local community or from the comfort of your own home.

• Computers and Internet facilities at libraries
• Learndirect – information on over 900,000 courses, including online courses
• Directgov – financial help for adult learners
• University of the Third Age – lifelong learning for those no longer in full-time employment
• Open University – study from home with the Open University

Voluntary work

You probably have lots to offer your community, so why not look into the many opportunities to give something back?

• Volunteering – our pages suggest how and why to volunteer
• Retired and Senior Volunteer Programme – for volunteers over 50