Active ageing - mini-Olympic Games for older people
Last updated 5/18/2012 10:44:11 PM
Active ageing - mini-Olympic Games for older people
University student Charis McKenna is hosting a mini-Olympic Games for older people as part of her studies into active ageing.
Charis McKenna, a Coach Education & Sports Development undergraduate at the University of Bath, came up with the idea for the event after speaking to nursing home residents about their views of the Games and sport in general.
She found that many of the residents were excited by the Olympics and had a sense of pride that the University of Bath was playing a part by hosting the Paralympic preparation camp as well as offering a base for many of the competing athletes.
Charis decided to organise the event, which will be held on 26 June, so that the residents could feel more involved in the Games.
She said: "I wanted to challenge the perception that sport is for young, athletic people. There is a lot of focus on getting young people moving in order to tackle childhood obesity but 2012 is also the European year of active ageing and solidarity between generations and I wanted to engage with older people's views on sport.
"The Olympic Charter says that ‘the practice of sport is a human right. Every individual must have the possibility of practicing sport in accordance with his or her needs', but some people can be marginalised.
The event will include archery, lifting and throwing games and table tennis. All of the residents are invited to take part along with their families and nurses. They will be presented with medals and certificates by twice GB Bob Skeleton Winter Olympian Adam Pengilly.