People of all ages turned out on 1 October 2008 to celebrate older people making a difference across the UK. The events they organised or got involved with included tea dances, coffee mornings, exercise classes and film screenings.

UK Older People’s Day is a chance to celebrate the huge contribution older people make to families and communities everywhere by making new connections to those who live around us, whatever their age.

As part of Older People’s Day 2008, we have produced a practical guide to retirement to help you plan and make the most out of this exciting time.

We know that retirement can bring many changes in your circumstances that can bring both worry and pleasure. Whether retirement is planned or comes about unexpectedly, it can give you the opportunity to pursue unfulfilled plans and learn new skills.

In our practical guide you will find help and advice on a wide range of issues, whether you are planning to retire or have already done so. This includes retirement due to ill health, retiring abroad, money management, budgeting and staying independent. You will also find many links to organisations that will be able to help with areas such as health, age discrimination, accommodation and bereavement.

If you would like any further help on any of the issues in the practical guide, you can call our 24/7 Support Line on 0800 562 561 (England) or 0800 564 2270 (Scotland).

Click here to find events linked to National Older People’s Day near to where you live.