Munster Technological University, in partnership with the Kerry Recreation and Sports Partnership (KRSP), recently held an ‘Active Ageing Festival’ at the Kerry Sports Academy on March 22, 2023. The interest and eagerness of the Kerry community to learn about active ageing was evident with the early demand for registration. The event was attended by 150 people who engaged in a busy schedule of activities facilitated by the Department of Health and Leisure Studies’ students and staff.
Dr. Barry Moynihan, a Consultant Geriatrician in the University Hospital Kerry, opened the festival with an informative talk on the importance of movement as we age. Many community organizations and networks participated in the event, including the HSE, Baile Mhuire, Kerry Library, Kerry Call, SeanChairde, Centre of Smart Ageing, Probus, and Age and Opportunity. The activities showcased at the festival included Pickleball, Bowls, Better Balance Better Bones, Dance, and Yoga.
KRSP’s coordinator Gearoid O Doherty emphasized the need for more community-based activities for older adults across Kerry and KRSP’s role in supporting this development. MTU lecturer and event coordinator Eimear Foley spoke about the mutual benefits of the event for both participants and students, stating that it provided the students with a real-life experience in planning, delivering, and evaluating the festival.
The concept of being active across the lifespan is embedded in the students’ course, and this opportunity for them to engage in real-life learning is paramount. The festival attendees commented on the professionalism, warmth, and enthusiasm of the students, while the students were delighted with the patience and ease of conversation with the participants. The KRSP can provide further information on these activities and others by phone on 066-7144200 or email at info@kerryrecreationandsports.ie. It is hoped that other venues across the county can facilitate similar events in the future.
