Summer of sport goes to extra time for older people

As part of a European initiative to get over 100 million people more physically active, partners of North Lanarkshire Reshaping of Care for Older People (RCOP) programme are hosting the action-packed day.

RCOP aims to make independent living a reality to growing numbers of older people by providing more support and care in the community, people’s own homes and homely settings.

And key to independent living is encouraging physical activity, says the event’s organiser Melanie Menzies.

“The free entry event takes place on Friday, October 3 at the Tryst Sports Centre in Cumbernauld from 11.30am and there’s something for everyone,” explained Melanie, health and well being manager for North Lanarkshire Leisure Ltd.

“We have activities ranging from circle dancing, zumba gold, strength and balance, stretch and flex to Indian head massage.

“The objective of the European-led Move Week is to promote the benefits of being active and participating regularly in sport and physical activity.

“That’s very much an ethos we recognise here in North Lanarkshire – all of these activities are an important way of ensuring older people in the area remain fit and active and, crucially, connected to their communities.

“Most importantly, though, the focus is on enjoyment and fun and I encourage everyone to come along!”

North Lanarkshire Leisure Ltd are working with RCOP partners who include NHS Lanarkshire, North Lanarkshire Council, the voluntary and the independent sector.

Many of the partner agencies will be represented on the day to provide information on everything from falls prevention to providing free health checks.

Karen Hunter, North Lanarkshire RCOP programme manager, added: “A key goal of RCOP is to help growing numbers of people over 65 to continue to live full, positive and independent lives. Events like this are key to realising that aim.”