Longford’s ‘Moving for Better Balance’ Project Shortlisted for the 2024 National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards

On 30 October Longford Sports Partnership, Longford Libraries, Age Friendly Longford and Sláintecare HSE are finalists for the Age Friendly Active & Healthy Ageing Award at the 2024 National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards. Their innovative Moving for Better Balance Project, based in Co. Longford is shortlisted for their exceptional contribution to making Ireland an outstanding place to grow older. Recognised by Age Friendly Ireland, these projects exemplify best practices which are both impactful and can inspire similar efforts across the country. 

Curated by Age Friendly Ireland, the annual awards celebrate individuals, organisations, and agencies nationwide that are spearheading initiatives to improve the lives of older adults in Ireland. The 2024 awards ceremony will take place on 7 November at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Northwood, Santry, Dublin, hosted by Fingal County Council. 

Speaking on the annual awards, Catherine McGuigan, Chief Officer of the Age Friendly Ireland Shared Service said: "The shortlisted projects represent the gold standard of innovation and dedication, showcasing how communities are coming together to improve the quality of life for older adults across Ireland. These initiatives stand out not only for their immediate impact but also for their potential to be replicated across the country." 

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The 2024 National Age Friendly Awards include eight categories, each aligned with a World Health Organization (WHO) Age Friendly Theme. These include awards for best in Age Friendly Transport; Active and Healthy Ageing; Business Innovation; Safety and Security; Communications; Environment; Community Innovation; and Housing. 

Commenting on the nomination, Longford Sports Partnership, said: “Moving for Better Balance is a community-based programme focused on improving balance, mobility, and overall well-being for older adults and those with chronic conditions, aiming to prevent falls. Delivered in partnership with local health services and libraries, it provides tailored exercise classes based on evidence-based techniques to enhance strength, flexibility, and coordination. The programme has seen significant success, with over 120 participants in each 8-week block (5 blocks per year) across six library sites, boasting a 90% satisfaction rate and 85% of participants reporting improved balance and confidence in daily activities.

Future plans include expanding to more community venues and introducing digital options to reach a wider audience. We’re thrilled that this initiative, strengthened by local government and local health partnerships, has been shortlisted for the 2024 Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards, reflecting its positive impact on participants' health and independence.”

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Previous winners of the National Age Friendly Awards have included initiatives such as Healthy Islands, Specsavers, and the Dublin City Council Central Area Office. For more information about this year’s awards and to learn about all the finalists, visit agefriendlyireland.ie.