Golden opportunity for older people
November 17, 2007
A plea for exercise opportunities for older people who cannot access leisure centres has been answered by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.
The authority stepped into shape via its STARs (Support To Access Recreation scheme) and has organised a series of classes at Pontyclun Community Centre.
The EXTEND classes run every Tuesday from 10.45am and involves movement to music for people over 60 or with limited mobility. All exercises are adapted so that people can take part while sitting down.
Run by a qualified EXTEND instructor, it is hoped the classes will enable older residents to come together and enjoy tailor-made exercise opportunities to keep them fit, healthy and on the move.
The classes are being held in the central community centre, and day centre giving attendees the chance to access and learn more about other essential facilities in their area.
Cllr Graham Thomas, Cabinet member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism, said: “We are very proud of the STARs scheme, which enables the authority to facilitate individual exercise, health and wellbeing opportunities for all elements of our community, from mums-to-be to older people and those with physical disabilities.
“While our leisure centres continue to offer a wide range of activities and opportunities for residents of all ages and interests, we have to cater for the pockets of the community that may struggle to access such facilities. STARs enables us to do this.”
Cllr John David, Cabinet Member for Older People, added: “It is wonderful to see activities on offer for older people. Providing the instructors and accommodation so they can get together and enjoy appropriate exercise while also meeting new people.
“The delivery of this class at such short notice is also credit to the work carried out on behalf of our more mature residents by the Older Peoples’ Forums. They were the ones who gathered the feedback and approached us to help deliver the opportunity.”
For more information on the classes, contact 01685 874323.
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