The aim of this study was to obtain a detailed view of older people’s perceptions of the importance of and factors influencing physical activity, social activity, and life space (travel beyond living space). Ten British participants aged 65 to 88 were observed and interviewed using open ethnography to gain insight into their ideas of healthy ageing and quality of life. The narrative themes were grouped into five categories:  

• Activities in the community and the home (these activities included church and community club events, household chores, walking, and shopping).
• Social support and relationships (community involvement and interaction with friends and family; i.e. arranging lunches with friends or weekends away staying with relatives).
• Interests, hobbies and personality (pursuing new or past hobbies such as computer classes, taking a keep fit class or gardening. An upbeat and positive personality was a major drive to the participants’ active and independent lives).
• Accessibility/facilities in the community (e.g. effective public transport which provides easy access and the flexibility to travel).
• Commitment (to look after others i.e. partners or their grown up children).  

Physical and social activity outside of the home appeared to enable this sample of older people to live independently and healthily, and so the data supports the promotion of physical and social activities in later life.