Grants program will keep seniors moving

Sport and activity providers can apply for a grant to receive a portion of $22.9 million in Government funding to encourage people over the age of 65 to become more active.

Sport and activity providers can apply for a grant to receive a portion of $22.9 million in Government funding to encourage people over the age of 65 to become more active.

Federal Sports Minister Bridget McKenzie launched the Move It Aus – Better Ageing grants program yesterday, which aims to support providers and organisations in offering more options and products for older Australians to increase their physical activity levels.

The program operated by Sport Australia is designed to address the rapidly ageing population and put a positive focus on the health of older Australians through physical activity.

Successful applicants will receive $2 million over a two-year period towards the implementation of community-based activities.

Sport Australia CEO Kate Palmer says the program encourages sport to be maintained throughout all stages of ageing.

“It’s undeniable that sport and physical activity are beneficial to physical and mental health so as a sport industry we need to challenge ourselves to come up with innovative ways to help older Australians benefit from an active lifestyle,” Ms Palmer said.

She said the campaign aims to address the change in sporting needs as people age.

“Our research tells us older Australians are motivated to be active, but their choice of sport and physical activities change with age. Sport needs to be adaptable to these changes,” Ms Palmer said.

The program encourages older Australians to engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day.

“(It) encourages Australians of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to try and find 30 minutes of physical activity per day,” Ms Palmer said.

She said the campaign would encourage healthy ageing among older people.

AusPlay, a continuous survey conducted by Sport Australia that commenced in October 2015 found people over the age of 65 are leaning towards recreational activities over sport, such as walking, golf, cycling and bowls.

Organisations have until 31 October 2018 to submit their applications. Find out more here.

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Tags: AusPlay, Bridget McKenzie, Federal Sports Minister, Kate Palmer, Move It Aus – Better Ageing, Sport Australia,

1 thought on “Grants program will keep seniors moving

  1. I haven’t found a older exercise program that caters for people who cannot walk far or use walkers.
    Help?

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