Peel Be Active Aged Care Games 2009
Peel seniors could be found locked in a battle for superiority at the Murray Districts Community Recreation Centre on Tuesday 20 October, as the annual Be Active Aged Care Games came to town.
18 November 2009
One-hundred-and-ninety seniors in 19 teams of 10 participated in the games, which were organised by the Peel Branch of the Seniors Recreation Council of WA (SRCWA), sponsored by Healthway's Be Active program, and supported by the SRCWA, Department of Sport and Recreation, Shire of Murray and Alcoa volunteers.
Gold medals were awarded to the Ali-Slammers team, representing the Alzheimers Association, silver medals went to Team One from Coolibah Total Caring, and bronze medals were won by Bedingfeld Aged Care.
The oldest competitor this year was 97-year-old Amy Giles, and Best Dressed Team was awarded to the RAAFA Golden Oldies team.
DSR Peel Manager Clint Klymovich said the games were an annual event that had become a highlight of the year for seniors living in care, but there was also a more serious and important message behind them.
"Participation in sport and recreation is important for the health and wellbeing of seniors, improving physical and mental health, reducing the risk of disease and providing social interaction, increased self esteem, independence and overall wellbeing," Mr Klymovich said.
"Research has shown that up to 50 per cent of the physical decline commonly associated with ageing may be due to a lack of physical activity, so events like this are important to get the message out there about the importance of physical activity for people of all ages."
Next year's Peel games will be held in Mandurah during October at a date to be decided.
Any aged care facility, hostel, day centre or organisation providing in-home care can register their interest with Jan McGlinn on 9535 479, or email dmc56456@bigpond.net.au.
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