Reconnecting Older Adults to Active Living (Inglês)

Across Europe, many older adults are finding it harder to stay physically active and socially connected. The COVID-19 pandemic made this even more visible by disrupting daily routines and reducing opportunities for interaction. Yet staying active and connected remains essential for both physical health and overall wellbeing.

The BASE project, Reconnecting Older People to Society for Healthy Lifestyle, was created to respond to this challenge. It brings together partners from six European countries, including Lagom European Healthy Lifestyle Academy, with a shared goal: to help older adults reconnect with their communities and live more active lives.

A key strength of BASE is its focus on people supporting people. Older adults who are already active are trained to become change agents within their own communities. They encourage and motivate others to take part in social and physical activities in a way that feels familiar and achievable.

At the same time, professionals such as community coaches and health workers are trained as mentors. They support the change agents and help ensure that activities are safe, structured, and sustainable.

The project is currently being tested in countries including the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Spain, and Lithuania. These real life settings allow the approach to be adapted and improved so it can work across different communities in Europe.

BASE shows that healthy ageing is not something people achieve on their own. It grows through connection, shared experience, and supportive communities.

To learn more about the project or how to get involved, visit the BASE website.