Older people from across the Mid-West and South-West came together at the UL Arena this week, for a Regional Sports Taster Day promoting active lifestyles, healthy ageing and social connection.
Hosted by Age Friendly Ireland and the Limerick Age Friendly Programme at Limerick City and County Council, the event gave participants an opportunity to try a wide range of sports and physical activities in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Welcoming participants, Liz Stanley, Chair of the Limerick Older People’s Council, encouraged everyone to put aside the responsibilities of everyday life, embrace their inner child and, most importantly, have fun.
Delivered in partnership with Limerick Sports Partnership and Age & Opportunity, activities included walking football, pickleball, Go for Life Games, functional fitness, chair-based exercise, tai chi and activator walking.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the day as enjoyable, welcoming and motivating. The majority also indicated that they would welcome further opportunities to take part in physical activity programmes in their own communities.
The Regional Sports Taster Day reflects the wider work of the Limerick Age Friendly Programme, which works in consultation with older people to help make Limerick a place where people can live healthy, active and independent lives as they age.
Its work includes supporting more walkable communities, improved housing and transport options, access to key services and greater opportunities for older people to participate in community life.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran highlighted the importance of initiatives that help people remain active and connected as they grow older, saying:
“A key ambition of my Mayoral Programme is to create a healthier Limerick that works for everyone, whatever their age or stage of life. Staying active and socially connected is a big part of that. Days like this show that being active can also be great fun, whether you're returning to something you enjoyed before or trying something completely new. I want people across Limerick to have those opportunities in their own communities.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir of Limerick City and County Council, Cllr Tom Ruddle, praised the enthusiasm of participants and the collaborative approach of the organisations involved:
“Staying active should be enjoyable and accessible at every stage of life. It was fantastic to see such enthusiasm here in Limerick and so many people willing to give something new a try. I hope participants will take that enthusiasm home with them and continue to enjoy these activities in their own communities.”
Dr Pat Daly, Director General of Limerick City and County Council, said:
“People are living longer, more active lives and we need to make sure our communities support that. Events like this promote healthy, independent living while creating valuable opportunities for people to meet, connect and build friendships.”
Liz Stanley, Chair of the Limerick Older People’s Council, said:
“We spend so much of our lives looking after responsibilities and doing what needs to be done. Today was an opportunity to put those things to one side, embrace our inner child and simply have fun. Staying active isn't just good for our health. It's also about enjoying ourselves, meeting people and continuing to try new things, whatever our age.”
Through the Limerick Older People’s Council, older people also have an opportunity to have their voices heard and to help inform local government decision-making and the delivery of public and private services.
For more information on the Limerick Older People’s Council visit agefriendlyireland.ie.
Contact 061 557525 or email agefriendly@limerick.ie.