19/06/2003

More opportunities for people to ‘Actively Age Well'

A new survey has revealed that around half of Northern Ireland people aged between 65 and 74 still take little or no exercise despite the fact that older people can halve their risk of hip fracture through regular physical activity.

In response to these figures, Age Concern Northern Ireland and the Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland today launched a new phase of ‘Actively Ageing Well’ which aims to help older people to get involved in physical activity.

Now in its second year, Actively Ageing Well works with community and older people’s groups to support and develop safe, sustainable, fun ways to get active. Speaking at the launch, Claire Keatinge, Director of Community Development and Health at Age Concern, said: “Actively Ageing Well has already enhanced older people’s lives in Northern Ireland and we are delighted to be marking the start of another programme for 2003.

"People who joined in last year not only enjoyed health benefits but also increased their confidence and found it gave them a new social outlook. Taking part in Actively Ageing Well is a chance for people to meet up with friends old and new and improve their health and well being at the same time.”

Actively Ageing Well is being delivered by Age Concern Northern Ireland to 60 community and older peoples groups throughout Northern Ireland.

It has also been developed through Age Concern and the Health Promotion Agency. The project works in partnership with a number of statutory organisations and is funded by lottery money awarded through the New Opportunities Fund Healthy Living Centre Initiative.

(MB)

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