Wolverhampton currently has low levels of physical activity in older adults – data shows that nearly a third of adults in the city are classed as inactive, doing less than 30 minutes of activity a week, increasing to over 40% of those aged 65 and over.
Regular physical activity reduces hip fractures by 68%, dementia by 30% and type 2 diabetes by 40%, and has many other health benefits too.
The newly appointed Active Ageing Coordinator Jessica Savage, whose role has been funded by Black Country Integrated Care Board, will play an integral part in increasing opportunities for older adults to be active in Wolverhampton.
Jessica, who will work with the council’s WV Active leisure service and stakeholders in the community, will enhance the current provision at the city’s WV Active leisure centres, while also exploring chances to implement city wide opportunities for residents to move more.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “We recognise the importance physical activity can have on older adults and we are committed to ensuring our residents have equal opportunities to move as they age.
“Ensuring older adults are active and moving in the city is a top priority for our city’s health and wellbeing board.
“Jessica will help us provide a co-produced offer that ensures older adults have access to facilities and activities that encourage people to move more, contributing towards our ambition for Wulfrunians to live longer and healthier lives.”
Jessica said: “Regular physical activity is one of the most important things older adults can do for their health.
“It’s been repeatedly evidenced to prevent and help manage many of the health problems that seem to come with age, including reducing the risk of falls through improving strength and balance, enhancing cognitive function, and boosting mood, making it a vital tool for longevity and quality of life.
“Across the city we have many opportunities for our older residents of all abilities to be active – and a key part of my role is working with sports clubs, community and leisure centres, the NHS, and the public.”
Dr Salma Reehana, local GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country ICB, said: “Maintaining physical activity is vital for everyone, but it becomes especially important as we age.
“Regular physical activity helps to maintain independence, manage chronic conditions, reduce the risk of falls and can help you feel better both physically and mentally.
“It's about moving more each day in whatever way works for you – even a few small changes can make a huge difference.”
Councillor Jaspal added: “I’d encourage residents, whatever their age, to think about how they can become active and use their local services such as WV Active.
“With WV Active providing concessionary memberships for older adults and other groups, providing tailored activities to suit varying levels of physical activity needs, there are plenty of opportunities for us all to become more active, and to enjoy the long lasting health benefits this can bring.”
WV Active offers several membership options and over 60s in Wolverhampton can enjoy the concessionary rate of only £11.50 a month. Details of membership packages are available at WV Active.
Members have access to all 3 facilities and can take part in unlimited fitness classes, gym usage and swimming. Activities especially for older adults include 60+ sessions featuring racket sports, gym sessions and bowls, and Grandparents and Tots sessions.
