Physical Activity for Older Adult

Description

The following is the range of targeted activities for older adults that OSP delivers:

Walking football (a slower-paced version of the traditional game. Focus on enjoyment & fitness, participation for all, minimised exposure to injury. Show respect to all & play with a smile)

Boccia league (Boccia is an enjoyable and effective physical activity for older adults, requiring less space, than traditional Boccia. It may enhance exercise adherence and overall function in space-limited settings)

Badminton (Badminton offers seniors a pathway to improved physical fitness and cardiovascular health, all while being a low-impact sport that minimizes injury risks)

Pickleball (Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines tennis, ping pong, and badminton. It provides health benefits,like better balance and cognitive function,that may be particularly appealing for older adults.)

Chair Volleyball (is great for upper body mobility and joint flexibility,enhances muscle tone, reflexes, hand-to-eye coordination, and endurance,played with a beach ball. Rules are like regular volleyball except “cheeks on the chair!”)

Scooch (Scooch is a uniquely Irish adaptation of Shuffleboard designed to suit smaller spaces and pockets. It is an inclusive activity that caters for a wide range of skill levels, fitness levels and abilities. Scooch can be played on any flat, smooth surface and can be played in singles (one player versus another) or pairs (two versus two)

Chair yoga (A great low-impact option for older adults is chair yoga, it helps improve flexibility, strength, and balance. It helps to reduce stress and improve overall health and well-being)

Social walk leader training (Aimed at people who wish to lead a voluntary walking group.)

Social walks using activators (These groups meet regularly to walk in parks, local communities, or through senior centers, providing a great mix of exercise and connection with others)

Social Darts (It’s simple to play and gets people moving just enough without being too strenuous, which is perfect for older adults. It helps keep hand-eye coordination sharp. Seniors get to focus on the target and line up their throws, which is great for keeping motor skills in check)

Activator Poles (Activator poles are particularly suitable for use by older adults with low fitness levels, balance concerns or mobility issues, conditions such as arthritis, Parkinson’s Disease, multiple sclerosis and recovering from hip or knee surgery. It is an innovative inclusive programme suitable for all fitness levels. Once older adults participate it can be sustainably carried on by community leaders)

Pilates (Is one type of low impact exercise that benefits your bone health, strength, and mobility as you get older. It can also help improve your posture, memory, and mood)

Gentle Fitness (gentle fitness routine is beneficial for muscle building and joint function. Regular exercise helps prevent age-related muscle loss and strengthens muscles through activities like resistance band exercises or light weightlifting. This makes daily tasks easier over time)

Strength & Conditioning (is crucial for older adults, It combats muscle loss, improves bone density, enhances mobility, and significantly reduces the risk of falls, helping maintain independence and overall quality of life.

Aim of Initiative

The aim of the Programme is to encourage and support older adults to participate in physical activities based on their interest and ability within a social environment.

Who is it aimed at

Older adults in all communities in Offaly

3 Steps critical to success

1. Identifying suitable locations and welcoming environment for participants
2. Selection of activities to suit various groups and individuals for eg some groups like basic classes while other like more of a challenge.
3. N/A

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Distance and travel can be an issue for participants
2. Sourcing venues that are large enough to accommodate the increasing numbers of individuals who wish to participate in the activities.
3. Resourcing programmes

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. Over 382 older adults participate in our classes.
2. Within community center people are seeing what can be done for older adults.
3. Pickle Ball group in Edenderry has become self-sustainable.