Moving for Life

About

Moving for Life – the Way I Like It was a physical activity and wellbeing program designed to help culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) seniors stay active, healthy and socially connected. The objective was to offer enjoyable, low-impact activities that suited different abilities, interests and cultural preferences, while reducing isolation and supporting overall wellbeing.

Timing

• Program duration: 2019-2021
• Context: Delivered before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, with activities adapted to both in-person and online formats to ensure continued access and participation.

Who was involved

The program was delivered by Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) and engaged 3,000+ participants.
It partnered with a wide range of organisations, including Maribyrnong City Council, Western Bulldogs, and over 50 multicultural community groups.

Funders

This project was supported through a grant from Sport Australia.

Benefits for participants and community

Participants benefited from:

• Access to a wide range of low-impact physical activities suited to different fitness levels
• Improved physical health, balance, confidence and mobility
• Opportunities to socialise, connect and stay engaged with their community
• Flexible participation through face-to-face and online programs
• Inclusive options for seniors with limited digital access through mailed resource kits

Outcomes and impact

• 3,500+ CALD seniors participated across the life of the program
• 104+ physical activity programs were delivered, including dancing, women’s circus, gentle exercise and walking football
• More than 1,000 participants joined online Moving for Life classes
• During COVID-19 restrictions, AMCS engaged over 3,000 CALD seniors through interactive online activities such as line dancing, seated dancing, laughter yoga, chair yoga, tai chi, walking tennis, football and hydrotherapy
• 30+ online exercise and activity programs were delivered using Zoom and Facebook
• Seniors without internet access received mailed home-based exercise kits with guidelines and health information
• In September 2019, the Multicultural Active Seniors Festival was delivered at RecWest in Braybrook, giving seniors the opportunity to try a range of activities in a supportive environment
• Participant feedback highlighted improved fitness, happiness, confidence and reduced risk of social exclusion

“The Moving for life – the way I like it program is fantastic. Thanks to AMCS and Sport Australia for giving us this opportunity. I am feeling fit, happy, healthy and steadier”

Resources

• Online exercise and wellbeing sessions delivered via Zoom and Facebook
• Home-based exercise and health information kits
• Community events and festivals promoting active ageing
• Partnerships with local councils, sporting organisations and multicultural groups