ECH Walking Footy won the Community Engagement category in the 2023 Future of Ageing Awards.
South Australian retirement living and home care provider ECH, in collaboration with the South Australian National Football League (SANFL), launched Walking Footy in 2019, an Australian Rules Football initiative for individuals aged over 50.
The program aims to promote physical activity, social connections, and overall well-being among older adults, aligning with ECH’s commitment to addressing social isolation. With a focus on inclusivity and safety, the modified game prohibits running, tackling, or bumping, making it accessible to participants with varying physical abilities…
Walking Footy aims to expand further in metropolitan Adelaide and regional South Australia, establishing leagues in different regions. Encouraging volunteer involvement is crucial for sustaining growth and facilitating additional teams. The program’s positive influence is evident in testimonials expressing the joy, exercise benefits, and social connections it brings to participants.
ECH’s Walking Footy stands out as a pioneering initiative that effectively addresses the physical and social well-being of older adults. The collaboration with SANFL, the co-design process, and ongoing community engagement exemplify a model that prioritises inclusivity, enjoyment, and meaningful connections, aligning with the criteria of the awards.
FULL story at source: https://insideageing.com.au/2023-future-of-ageing-awards-winner-ech-walking-footy/
Author: The Walking Football
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