In Ireland, the number of people aged 65 and older has grown by over 40% since 2014 and is expected to reach 1.6 million by 2051. As we age, being physically active is one of the most important things we can do to stay healthy and independent. However, older people often face barriers to physical activity—such as fear of falling, frailty, or pain—which can prevent them from joining or continuing with regular programmes that may be too demanding, worsen symptoms, or lack suitability. Furthermore, healthcare professionals find it challenging to signpost people to the right exercise programme, in the right place, at the right time.
The FaME Ireland study (2024-2026) is examining the early adoption of a 26-week falls management exercise (FaME) programme. The aim of FaME is to improve balance and strength, and increase physical activity and social engagement. However, upon completing FaME, participants have reported difficulty identifying suitable follow-on programmes to maintain their physical activity. Additionally, those who did join other programmes often found them challenging to keep up with. Barriers to successful engagement in community-based physical activity appear to remain inadequately addressed. In 2024, we hosted a symposium aiming to raise awareness of exercise programmes for older people. We found that while many programmes exist, they work in silos, with no easy process to identify the most suitable programmes to address individuals’ needs.
Recognising this complexity, we are running this seminar to bring together local stakeholders in the HSE South West to brainstorm how to keep people active by finding the programme addressing the individual’s needs. The goal is to make it easier for older adults to find and join safe, effective, and enjoyable exercise programmes that support health, independence, and social connection.
