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)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

18 April 2024
NI Civil Service Launches New Neurodiversity Toolkt
As part of Autism Awareness Month, the Civil Service has announced the launch of a new Neurodiversity Line Manager's Toolkit. As an equal opportunities employer the Civil Service has said that it is committed to creating diverse and inclusive workplaces supporting and promoting neurodiversity in the workplace is a key part of their commitment.
02 October 2023
PHA Launches New Winter Healthy Living Campaign
The Public Health Agency (PHA) launched a new campaign on the importance of looking after your health throughout the winter.
19 November 2013
Culture Minister Promotes ChildLine Across Arts
Culture and Arts Minister Carál Ní Chuilín is encouraging all organisations that work with young people to promote the ChildLine Number - 0800 1111 - across Northern Ireland. She said: "I am very pleased to be able to promote ChildLine across the culture, arts and leisure sectors. Child protection across these sectors is very important.
01 March 2013
Former Minister Says SDLP Should Leave Executive
The SDLP should leave the Northern Ireland Executive, as it is not doing enough to bring people together, former SDLP Minister Brid Rodgers. Appearing on BBC Northern Ireland’s The View on Thursday, she said the SDLP should become part of the opposition. However, it is a move that is contrary to party policy.
13 February 2002
Reid tells Americans 'Northern Ireland people understand'
The Secretary of State John Reid has told the Americans that the people of Northern Ireland understand how they feel in the face of the threat of terrorism.