Intergenerational Sport Solutions for Healthy Ageing (Funmilies)

Background By 2050 there are expected to be 149.2 million people in Europe aged 65 or older, or about 28.5% of the population. Despite living longer, older people experience more and more social alienation and loneliness as a result of deteriorating health and mobility issues. Meanwhile, young people's inactive habits and lack of exercise also contribute to obesity and poor self-esteem. Thus, promoting active and healthy aging and solidarity among generations is crucial for the wellbeing of Europeans. Objectives The main purpose of the project was to increase participation and collaboration in intergenerational sports activities between people over 65 and those under 25 in Greece, Bulgaria, Hungary, Italy, and Slovenia. Its goal was to educate and involve sport professionals and clubs in order to promote access to sports activities and associated information for all and facilitate physical, psychological, and social transformations in its target populations through intergenerational sports. Implementation A field research study on intergenerational sports activities for healthy aging contributed to the development of a capacity building program that was piloted with sport professionals. An online platform was built to host and further disseminate the program. Multiple intergenerational sports activities were organized to engage the target groups, upon which a practical guide for sports clubs was built. The Century Tournament further promoted intergenerational collaboration and public awareness. Achievements The project's research highlights the importance of community building and local activities for successful intergenerational sports. The capacity building program trained 117 individuals in planning and implementing such events. 243 participants and 26 sport professionals took part in intergenerational sports activities, contributing to the development of the Guide for Sport Clubs. 93 users registered on the online platform, and dissemination activities reached 33.000 people.