Over 100 Active Longevity Clubs of the Ukrainian Red Cross are operating across Ukraine
Loneliness affects thousands of older adults across the country. The relocation of relatives to other regions or abroad, conscription into military service, and other factors have left many elderly people alone.
In response, the Ukrainian Red Cross is developing a network of Active Longevity Clubs as part of its long-term care initiatives. The primary goal of these clubs is to promote an active lifestyle, respect, and safety for every person.
The first clubs were established in 2018 in the Luhansk and Donetsk regions. However, due to the full-scale war in Ukraine, their activities were suspended. Since 2023, the Ukrainian Red Cross, together with partners — including National Red Cross Societies and local authorities — has resumed the clubs’ operations, building on previous experience.
Active Longevity Clubs provide spaces where older adults can engage in activities, meet like-minded people, develop useful skills, and look after their health. Club members actively contribute to the development of the clubs and often take on management roles. Ukrainian Red Cross staff and volunteers offer ongoing support to participants, often forming strong personal connections.
Currently, 106 Active Longevity Clubs have been established in almost every region of Ukraine, with the exception of Luhansk and Crimea. Anyone aged 60 or older is welcome to become a member. Participants actively contribute to organising, leading, and taking part in a wide range of activities, including:
- interest-based meetings (e.g. creativity, cooking, handicrafts);
- lectures, masterclasses, and training sessions;
- physical activity classes, yoga, and dancing;
- psychosocial support events and celebrations of important dates;
- social gatherings to build cohesion and connect with new people;
- volunteering — a meaningful way to give back to the community.
Members of the Active Longevity Clubs are volunteer activists and local community representatives who lead their own teams of regular participants. Together, they build close-knit, supportive communities that inspire, organise events, encourage positive change, and welcome like-minded people to join.
We are actively expanding the network to ensure that older people across Ukraine are not left in isolation and can enjoy active, fulfilling lives. By the end of this year, we plan to open around 10 more Active Longevity Clubs nationwide.
Would you like to become a member or volunteer? Please contact:
- Your nearest local Ukrainian Red Cross organisation
- Ukrainian Red Cross hotline: 0 800 332 656.