An Olympic event for West Lothian

The event, supported by West Lothian Community Health and Care Partnership (CHCP), West Lothian Care Activity Network (CAN), Xcite West Lothian and Ageing Well will encourage older people within local care settings (care homes, day care, sheltered housing, care at home) to increase their physical activity levels.

Events will take place throughout West Lothian, with the main event being held at Xcite Broxburn on 26 May from 1pm to 3pm, which will start with an opening ceremony, including a cheerleading display by residents from Craigmair Care Home.

The games will then commence with ten teams of six participants competing in five fun events including; parachute and ball, skittles, new age kurling, jigsaw and bean bag toss. Teams will be supported by carers and volunteers to allow for smooth running of the event, as well as to keep score fairly.

Each participant will receive a medal, with trophies being presented to the first three teams. Following the event a Tea Dance hosted by Ageing Well will be held for participants.

Theresa Douglas, Chair of West Lothian Community Health and Care Partnership (CHCP) said: "It is well known that physical activity can have a dramatic impact on a range of conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and strokes. Exercise also strengthens muscles, aids mobility and helps to reduce the risk of falls and osteoporosis, which can often be common in later life.

"By holding fun events like this we hope to encourage older people to keep active."

Ellen Glass, executive councillor for health and care said: "?Keeping active can help prevent ill health and improve quality of life, which are important issues as we get older.

"Research has shown that competitive events have a place to play in encouraging people to be active.This event is an excellent opportunity for older people in care homes to take part in fun activities aimed at improving health and wellbeing."

Tesco has also donated £102, which has been used to buy some of the equipment for the event, they are also providing water and volunteers to support the event itself

For further information, please contact Linda Middlemist on 01506 771791 or email hit@westlothian.gov.uk

For further information on health and social care services delivered in West Lothian, visit www.westlothianchcp.org.uk