Joan Comber

An Aberdeen grandmother is staying active to help her keep pace with her grandchildren.

Joan Comber takes part in a range of activities with her friends to ensure that she keeps her energy levels high. Once a week, she takes part in Tai Chi classes and she also attends an exercise group.

Joan, 74, said: "I had both my hips replaced when I was in my forties.  I always say that the replacement hips let me do everything I need but not necessarily everything I want. Despite that, I've never let it keep me from being active".

"Lots of the women in the classes I attend are older than I - there's a lady of 86 who comes every week. No matter what the age, though, I look around the room and everyone is smiling. I think it's a tremendous benefit to everyone who takes part."

"After each class, I always feel fantastic and that motivates me to keep coming back week after week."

Joan also sees her grandchildren as often as she can, and regularly goes swimming with them in the local pool.

Joan said: "I love spending time with my grandchildren and even though they have so much energy I always make an effort to keep up with them as much as I can. It definitely helps to keep us close, but if I was less active day-to-day I'm sure I would find it a real struggle to enjoy myself with them as much as I do."

Joan goes out pole-walking with her friends and husband Ronnie whenever she can. Using poles helps to take the strain off her ankle and knee joints.

She explained: "Walking is a great way to catch up with your friends and enjoy the countryside and lovely parks within Aberdeen."