You can’t help getting older but you still don’t have to get OLD.
With this in mind, sport for the elderly. Even if you or someone you care for has not been actively sporty for a while it is never too late.
I recently read about the 99 year old lady named Doris who celebrated her Birthday by abseiling 11 floors of Portsmouth University and an 80 year old gentleman who took up bodybuilding.
Why not? If someone is able to still capable of enjoying such activities the rewards are not just physical but emotional too. They feel inspired and capable.
Other sports activities for older participants could include;
- Swimming, ideal for people who find other sports more difficult as it is weight bearing and good for arthritis
- Cycling, many older people find cycling easier than walking
- Lawn bowls, a very gentle, sociable and popular sport
- Golf, many a seasoned player is still to be seen on the green well into their 80’s. When the going gets tough, take a buggy !
- Bridge ! Not a physical game but certainly one of logic and skill keeping the brain fit and challenged.
- Tai Chi, a gentle form of controlled martial art suitable for older people which helps maintain good balance
- Walking, still a popular pastime with the elderly although the distances may be less.
- Yoga,excellent for strengthening muscles and maintaining flexability.
