Ylivieska retirees stay fit through volunteer work, stories, and humour

A group of retired men in Ylivieska maintain their health and mobility by working together on volunteer projects, from clearing invasive plant species to building park infrastructure.

Calling themselves the “äijät” (old men), the group of over 60, with around 20 typically participating at a time, combines physical activity with social bonding. Their work includes everything from forest clearing to serving as pallbearers and accompanying elderly care home residents on walks.

“We get to reduce medication by coming here to heal nature and the world,” says Matti Peltola, one of the members. The men emphasize that laughter is a key part of their gatherings—sometimes to the point of sore stomachs—though they draw the line at two topics: religion and politics.

“Professions don’t matter here. Everyone starts from the same line, and no one is better than another,” says Markku Autio, who helps organize the group. Those who can no longer drive are picked up, and those unable to do heavy work can contribute by making coffee or tending the fire.

Researcher Kaisa Koivunen of the University of Jyväskylä praises the group’s approach, noting that physical activity and social engagement are vital for maintaining functional ability and mental well-being in older age. She warns, however, that future retirees may not enjoy the same level of fitness, as physical activity tends to decline and obesity rates rise with age.

“It sounds like they’re also building muscle strength, which is important because it diminishes as we age,” Koivunen says.

The group stays active year-round. “People always ask if we have a summer break,” Autio jokes. “I tell them no—we always find some little task to do.”