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Topic 1: UNDERSTAND – the reason for

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Quick overviews from experts

In this video,   HEPA Expert Group member Ine de Clerck is interviewing two of her colleagues. Dimitri Vrancken, a researcher from the Artvelde University of Applied Sciences, and Patricia De Vriendt, a senior researcher in Gerontology, share their story and experience on the role of physical activity in healthy ageing and provides us with an overview of why it matters.

Actionable learnings from data or existing studies: the multidimensional benefits of exercise and sport

🔹 Keeping citizens motivated and aware of how they can stay physically active is a key element of an active ageing strategy. 

🔹 Regular and sufficiently intensive physical activities and sport are crucial for preserving and improving the quality of life also for older and very old people. The many health effects of an active way of life, however, conflict sharply with the actual activity and movement level of older people.

The infographics below, developed by the  US National Institute on ageing, clearly demonstrate the multidimensional benefits of exercise and sport. It exemplifies in an inspiring way how “Exercise can help you keep doing what’s most important to you!”. It can help you communicate effectively to your target audience but shall also serve as a guideline for developing your own programme reminding you of what shall be included in a holistic approach for active ageing activities.

In addition, exercise also brings emotional benefits.