Older people enjoy active day at Midlands Sports taster event

Older people from across the midlands came together for a lively day of sport, exercise and social connection at the Age Friendly Midlands Sports Taster Day, hosted by Westmeath County Council at the International Sports Arena on the campus of Technological University of the Shannon (TUS).

The event welcomed members of Older People’s Councils and community groups from Westmeath, Longford, Laois, Offaly and Roscommon. Minister of State for Older People and Housing, Kieran O’Donnell, TD, officially opened it and praised the initiative for encouraging older people to remain active and connected within their communities.

Participants enjoyed movement-to-music, Go for Life games, activator poles, walking football, seated yoga, Tai Chi and STEM sessions. The activities highlighted the many ways physical activity can be adapted to suit different abilities while promoting both physical and mental wellbeing.

Proceedings ended on a high note with an energetic salsa session that saw participants dancing and celebrating together.

The Sports Taster Day reflects the continued commitment of local authorities in the midlands to developing age-friendly communities where older people can remain active, independent and fully involved in community life.

Minister O’Donnell said regular physical activity helps older people maintain their independence, improve their physical and mental wellbeing and reduce social isolation. “By creating more opportunities for older people to engage in physical activity, we can better support healthy ageing with independence.

“I commend Westmeath County Council for organising such an enjoyable and worthwhile event, along with Age Friendly Ireland, Older People’s Councils and Local Sports Partnerships for their work in supporting active and healthy ageing.”

Barry Kehoe, chief executive, Westmeath County Council, also thanked the Age Friendly teams, partner local authorities, Sports Partnerships, tutors, volunteers and participants whose enthusiasm helped make the event such a success.