Health promoting environments: Physical exercise and prevention of falls in elderly

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The Global Strategy and Plan of Action for Healthy Aging in Europe 2010-2020 includes the promotion of physical activity (PA) as a priority intervention 1 and the prevention of falls as a priority intervention 2. Portugal's involvement involves need for cross-cutting policy development; of multidisciplinary, flexible and proximity action strategies and professional development in the area of physical exercise, as an instrument of education, training, development and health promotion. PURPOSE: Presentation of the “UP Again, Senior!” Project as a response to the social challenge of active aging and specific and challenging job market training. METHODOLOGY: The project arises in response to the challenge of implementing intersectoral and multidisciplinary policies aimed at promoting active aging. In line with the conceptual and normative framework of the National Program for Sport for All (PNDpT), it is intended to be implemented in Higher Education Institutions as bodies of direct intervention in the promotion of targeted and specialized training. RESULTS: In partnership with local authorities, associations and sports organizations, the project is aimed at the elderly, aged 65 and over, from Baixo Alentejo. CONCLUSION: The project is developed from a biopsychosocial perspective, based on the guidelines of the National Strategy for the Promotion of Physical Activity, the PNDpT framework and four operational axes: Sports / Events; Publications / Research; Education / Training; and Campaigns, Communication and Awareness.