“FITLINE” TO GET OLDER ADULTS ACTIVE
World Health Organisation Recognises South Dublin Group's work
A group of south Dublin locals received a great boost recently when the World Health Organisation gave the thumbs up to the work they've been doing. The World Health Organisation has selected Go for Life FitLine as a good example of how to encourage people to be physically active. The seal of approval is very encouraging as although Go for Life FitLine is based on a successful American model it was adapted for Ireland and south Dublin is only the second site where it's being offered.
Go for Life FitLine is a telephone based support service that is free and encourages people to be more physically active. Participants can sign up to receive calls from older Go for Life FitLine mentors. "What's new and exciting about Go for Life FitLine is that the volunteer mentors making the calls are ordinary older adults from the local area who have themselves been through the ups and downs of trying to be active" said Mary Harkin, Go for Life's Programme Manager. The volunteer mentors have an interest in physical activity, are great listeners and have been trained in techniques to encourage and motivate people to be active. They give praise when things are going well, and encouragement to keep going when motivation is low. They know that developing healthy habits takes time. Once or twice a year, FitLine also hosts group workshops that people can attend to get ideas for being active. FitLine is run by Go for Life, the national programme for sport and physical activity in conjunction with the Health Promotion Department of the HSE and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Sports Partnership.
The World Health Organisation's endorsement will come as no surprise to Charlie Bowles, a Dublin man who's been receiving calls from FitLine for the last year. He says "I find FitLine great for motivating me when I start to slack off from my exercising. It gives me a shot in the arm to get going again."
People interested in getting more active can call Go for Life FitLine on 01-805 7733 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.
For further media information contact: Sue Russell, Age & Opportunity, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; 01 805 7709; 087 293 4672.
