This initiative showcases how the Ah Ma Flippa Ball team invites older women to embrace physical activity, fostering a positive community spirit.
**Grandmothers Get Active: Singapore's Ah Ma Flippa Ball Team Inspires Seniors**
**Grandmothers Get Active: Singapore's Ah Ma Flippa Ball Team Inspires Seniors**
A new wave of senior engagement in Singapore promotes health and camaraderie through sport.
In a vibrant display of energy, the Ah Ma Flippa Ball team, composed of grandmothers primarily in their 60s, 70s, and 80s, demonstrates that staying active knows no age limits. Recently, during a lively practice session, 71-year-old Lee Fong Nam found herself in a tussle for the ball, calling for her coach to intervene. “Are you still not going to blow the whistle?” she quipped to laughter. The playful rivalry is a hallmark of the game, which is a child-friendly version of water polo.
This innovative sports team originated in 2016 when a sports official, struck by the joy in a children’s flippa ball class, sought to replicate the experience for seniors. Skepticism turned to enthusiasm as they embraced the sport, fostering not just fitness but also friendships among participants.
As Singapore's population ages, with life expectancy reaching 84 and nearly 20% of residents over 65, the government has recognized the need for initiatives that encourage this demographic to remain active. Measures such as raising retirement ages and offering cash benefits to seniors reflect a commitment to promoting their well-being.
Moreover, the government has launched programs designed to engage seniors, including the introduction of “Silver Generation Ambassadors” who visit those living alone, encouraging them to partake in exercises, games like Rummy-O, and even robotics lessons. Not only has this increased participation in sports, but it has also instilled a sense of community, as older residents join cheerleader squads, e-sports teams, and now, a flippa ball team.
Through these engaging initiatives, Singapore aims to ensure that its seniors can age gracefully while remaining active contributors to society. The Ah Ma Flippa Ball team stands as a testament to that effort, showcasing the joy and camaraderie that sports can bring to their lives.
This innovative sports team originated in 2016 when a sports official, struck by the joy in a children’s flippa ball class, sought to replicate the experience for seniors. Skepticism turned to enthusiasm as they embraced the sport, fostering not just fitness but also friendships among participants.
As Singapore's population ages, with life expectancy reaching 84 and nearly 20% of residents over 65, the government has recognized the need for initiatives that encourage this demographic to remain active. Measures such as raising retirement ages and offering cash benefits to seniors reflect a commitment to promoting their well-being.
Moreover, the government has launched programs designed to engage seniors, including the introduction of “Silver Generation Ambassadors” who visit those living alone, encouraging them to partake in exercises, games like Rummy-O, and even robotics lessons. Not only has this increased participation in sports, but it has also instilled a sense of community, as older residents join cheerleader squads, e-sports teams, and now, a flippa ball team.
Through these engaging initiatives, Singapore aims to ensure that its seniors can age gracefully while remaining active contributors to society. The Ah Ma Flippa Ball team stands as a testament to that effort, showcasing the joy and camaraderie that sports can bring to their lives.
