Age UK launch ‘Team Age Better’ to encourage older people to be physically active
Using new research that shows 1.8 million people aged 55-64 are inactive, Age UK has launched ‘Team Age Better’.
Referencing NICE guidance on midlife approaches to reinforce how physical activity can help to prevent the onset of dementia, disability and frailty in later life, Age UK hope that ‘Team Age Better’ will help more older people become active in what is the second phase of their ‘Act Now, Age Better’ campaign (which we reported on here: https://journalofdementiacare.co.uk/age-uk-launch-act-now-age-better-campaign).
‘Team Age Better’ is described as: “A different type of national team, made up of everyday people who are actively adding years to their life through movement and activity. Not elite. Not perfect. Just regularly showing up.”
Paul Farmer, CEO of Age UK, says:
“By focusing on fun, inclusivity and removing the pressure to perform, we can help people overcome concerns about ability or fitting in. The result is not just improved physical health, but greater confidence, connection and overall wellbeing.
Age UK would like to see all adults aged 50 and older start preparing for their health in later life as they would prepare financially with a pension. The message is clear: it’s never too late to make meaningful changes. By incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines, or joining a team sport or group activity, individuals can secure a healthier, happier and more independent future.”
Watch a film about Team Age Better here: https://youtu.be/4vOHqtNpFoI?si=e_1oYq26B2FwubiQ
Find out more about Act Now, Age Better, here: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/get-involved/act-now/
Dementia Community recently ran a webinar with Sporting Memories, who talked about their clubs as a way to help people with dementia to be more active. You can watch the recording of this webinar here: https://youtu.be/xntKPpkRMIY