Social Participation

The provision of engaging, accessible and affordable activities that allow for older people to participate in leisure, social, cultural, community and spiritual activities helps them stay engaged, informed and active. Social participation supports enhanced walkability and Healthy Active Ageing.

In the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018-2030 [114] a framework for action is proposed through the creation of active societies, environments, people and systems in order to increase physical activity and health across society and the life course. The WHO Age-friendly Communities Approach is commonly used across Australia and provides a valuable guide to creating access to safe, accessible, affordable and appropriate spaces to facilitate physical activity. While it is well understood that environmental characteristics can either promote or deter physical activity, research demonstrates that social participation has a significant impact on Healthy Active Ageing outcomes.

Social engagement is essential in encouraging physical activity. For example, seeing other older people exercising and exercising regularly with family and friends [22]. There is also a realisation that healthier, happier, more active and engaged older people also have a social and economic benefit for the whole of society [86] [119]. Social participation can be supported in many ways. Public spaces and places can be designed to be inclusive. Programs can be designed specifically to address the needs of older people. Importantly, planning processes should actively engage with older people via informal channels and during formal advertising.

The Heart Foundation provides a national network of free walking groups, enabling a safe and socially engaged way for older adults to be active in the company of others. To locate a local Heart Foundation Walking group visit https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/