New initiative will help older people stay active in body and mind

This week (Wednesday 22 September), Age Scotland is launching an innovative new health and wellbeing activity to help older people keep their bodies and minds in good shape.

Power Quiz offers a series of accessible movement-based exercises to get people moving, along with multiple-choice quiz questions to fire up the mind.

As Covid restrictions ease and community groups have begun meeting safely in person again, Scotland’s national charity for older people is introducing Power Quiz as a way of supporting older people to be physically active and enjoy the mental wellbeing benefits of social connection.

Although Power Quiz sessions will be fun, there is a serious intent behind the project.

Data from Age Scotland's Big Survey, released last week, revealed that 64% of over 50s said Covid-19 restrictions had made them less active. As a result, many older people are likely to be living with 'deconditioning' - the effect of declining physical fitness caused by not getting out and about, combined with long periods of time spent sitting.

Power Quiz will provide an opportunity for older people to resume and build up their physical activity in a safe environment. Each exercise includes a standing and a seated option to allow participants to work at a level they feel comfortable with.

The quiz questions, which cover topics including sport, around the world and history, are an entertaining way for quiz fans to test and sharpen their knowledge. Community groups around the country can contact Age Scotland to book a session and share the physical and mental benefits of exercise and company with their members.

Brian Sloan, Age Scotland’s Chief Executive, said:

“For many older people, the Covid-19 pandemic brought about an abrupt end to the exercise classes, walking sports and outdoor activities that kept them physically active and provided a welcome opportunity to socialise.

“Now that life is getting back to normal with older people’s groups getting back together after a long 18 months, it is important to tackle the adverse impact that the restrictions have had on many, including loss of mobility, confidence and social connection.

“Power Quiz is a great opportunity to bring older people together to try new physical activities that will boost balance, strength, mobility and flexibility, while having fun answering quiz questions.

“Staying active is extremely important for good physical and mental health and I hope community groups around the country sign up for a session to allow as many older people as possible to take part in Power Quiz and enjoy the benefits of movement.”

Cara McGurn, Age Scotland’s Healthy Active Ageing Trainer, said:

“Even the smallest amount of physical exercise can have a huge impact on our quality of life. I am looking forward to older people taking part in Power Quiz, having fun while improving their own health and wellbeing.

"Good physical and mental health will help older people enjoy later life and Power Quiz offers a great way to do that and maybe make a few new friends along the way. So if you run a community group with older members, please get in touch and book a fun, supportive session."

To find out more about Power Quiz, visit www.age.scot/PowerQuiz.  

Anyone interested in hosting a session is invited to get in touch on healthandwellbeing@agescotland.org.uk.