ALL KERALA SENIOR ATHLETIC MEET(AKSAM)

The Senior Citizens Athletic Meet serves as a platform to promote physical well-being, social interaction, and a sense of community among elderly individuals. Engaging in sports and physical activities at an older age contributes to overall health, reducing the risk of chronic conditions and enhancing mobility. Beyond the physical benefits, the event fosters a supportive environment, encouraging seniors to stay active, build friendships, and maintain a positive outlook on life. It celebrates their resilience, promotes inclusivity, and highlights the importance of lifelong fitness, reinforcing the idea that age should not be a barrier to an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Empowering senior citizens through sports to promote active aging, foster community engagement, and contribute to overall well-being while aligning with global age-friendly initiatives.

The ALL KERALA SENIOR ATHLETIC MEET is landmark event is designed to transcend the boundaries of a traditional sports meet. AKSAM is not merely a national event but a significant international sports gathering exclusively for seniors, hosted by the Cochin Corporation and MAGICS NGO Kochi. It serves as a unique platform to celebrate the spirit of senior athletes globally, aligning with the Age-friendly Cities concept of the World Health Organization (WHO), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, and crucially, the National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE) and the National and Kerala State Policies for the Elderly.

Beyond the realm of sports, AKSAM aims to create an environment that fosters the overall well-being of seniors, strengthening the Age-friendly Kochi program and aligning with the global network of age-friendly initiatives endorsed by WHO. As Kochi progresses towards being an age-friendly city, AKSAM envisions fostering opportunities for senior athletes to explore international sports platforms. This event is not just about promoting the ideals of the World Health Organization; it signifies the intersection of Sports and Active Ageing. The meet will be conducted as a part of the "Age-Friendly Kochi City" initiative, adhering to the guidelines set forth by WHO and exemplifying our commitment to a healthier, more active, and inclusive community for seniors.

WHY ACTIVE AGEING IS ESSENTIAL IN KERALA?

Active ageing is essential in Kerala due to its rapidly ageing population. With a high life expectancy and declining birth rates, promoting active ageing can help address the challenges of an ageing society. Encouraging older adults to stay active and engaged can lead to a healthier and more productive population in the state. Embracing active ageing can also help in utilizing the experience and knowledge of the elderly for the overall development of Kerala

Demographic Considerations

• Kerala's elderly population exceeds 15% above 60 years
• Addressing the needs of this demographic, the project aligns with the National and Kerala State Policies for the Elderly, promoting health, well-being, and active ageing.
• Address the issue of old age-dependency through developing networks for older persons that will fight ageism as well as elder abuse.

Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases and Promote Healthy Aging

• Recognizing the role of physical activity in preventing NCDs, the athletic meet aligns with the NPHCE's emphasis on promoting healthy ageing through lifestyle interventions, including regular exercise.

Alignment with Age-Friendly Cities and Communities Concept

• The event embraces WHO's Age-friendly Cities concept by fostering social participation and promoting outdoor spaces as well as health and community support domains by encouraging physical activities.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• The project contributes to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), a1(Partnerships for the Goals), emphasizing health, inclusivity, urban sustainability, and collaborative efforts.

Promote Active Aging

• Encourage seniors to embrace physical activity as a means of promoting health and vitality and combat the rising prevalence of NCDs.

Foster Community Engagement

• Create a platform that fosters social interaction, camaraderie, and community spirit among senior citizens.

Contribute to Overall Well-being

• Enhance the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of seniors through active participation in athletic events

Align with Age-Friendly Cities Concept

• Reinforce the principles of WHO's Age-friendly Cities, emphasizing the importance of outdoor spaces and social participation for seniors.

Support National Program for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE)

• Contribute to the NPHCE's objectives by promoting healthy aging through lifestyle interventions, including regular exercise.

Align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• Contribute to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Celebrate Global Senior Athletes

• Serve as an international sports event exclusively for seniors, celebrating the achievements and spirit of senior athletes on a global stage.

Strengthen Age-Friendly Kochi

• Reinforce and strengthen the Age-Friendly Kochi program by creating an environment that aligns with global age-friendly initiatives.

Explore International Sports Platforms

• Provide senior athletes with opportunities to participate in international sports platforms, promoting Kochi as a hub for active aging and sports.

Advocate for Sports and Active Ageing

• Promote the integration of sports and active lifestyles into the aging process, advocating for the well-being of seniors through physical activity.

"Age-Friendly Kochi City" Initiative

• Organize the athletic meet in alignment with the guidelines of WHO's Age-Friendly Cities initiative, emphasizing Kochi's commitment to creating a more inclusive and healthier environment for seniors.