From March 18th to 20th, 2024, the partner association Miguel Torga (POR) hosted the first transnational meeting of the "The Age of Sport" (TAS) project in the city of Lisbon.
This initiative, funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union, saw the participation of other partners: Arte del Contatto (IT), Sportsroom (BUL), and the lead association RomaCammina (IT).
The TAS project addresses one of the most significant demographic challenges in contemporary Europe: the ageing population. It aims to promote physical activity and sports among the elderly, thereby improving their quality of life and social integration, through a general objective and more specific objectives:
GENERAL OBJECTIVE:
Educate sports associations, coaches, and trainers on the importance of sport for older adults as a crucial action to support the sustainable future of our local, national, and European communities.
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES:
Spread knowledge on the condition of the older adults in Europe;
Promote the benefits of sport for the older adult: psycho/physical/social;
Provide tools to sports associations, coaches, and trainers to promote sports activities to older adult people.
Our meeting was divided into several parts, each functional to the development of the project:
Analysis of the ageing phenomenon in Europe
The meeting opened with an in-depth demographic analysis, illustrating how Europe is facing a significant change in its age pyramid. Speakers emphasized the importance of adjusting social and health policies to effectively meet the needs of an increasingly ageing population.
The benefits of sport in old age
Participants explored the multiple benefits of sports for the elderly. It was highlighted how regular physical activity can reduce the risk of numerous chronic diseases, improve mobility and mental health, and provide a sense of community and belonging. The discussion also included how sports can combat loneliness and isolation, common problems in old age.
Creation of suitable sports programs for the elderly
A crucial part of the event was dedicated to designing and implementing specific sports programs for the elderly. Experts shared various strategies to make sports accessible and attractive to this age group, discussing adapted activities, safe and accessible infrastructure, and the need for trained personnel to handle the unique needs of older athletes.
International cooperation and exchange of experiences
The meeting emphasized the need for international cooperation to tackle the challenge of active ageing. Through the TAS project, European partners can share and learn from various experiences, creating a support network that transcends national borders.
Prospects and conclusions
The event concluded with an optimistic view of the future, with participants reiterating their commitment to promoting active and healthy ageing. The Lisbon meeting laid the foundation for the excellent continuation of the project and reaffirmed the importance of a proactive and inclusive approach to ageing.
We are thus delighted with the first transnational meeting of the TAS project, which represents a significant step forward in recognizing and valuing the role of sports in the lives of the elderly. Through initiatives like TAS, funded by the European Union, our partnership is committed to transforming old age into a period of activity, inclusion, and well-being, redefining the way society perceives and supports its elderly citizens.
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