Staying active and connected within the community becomes increasingly important for both physical and mental health.

Recognising this, one state has launched an innovative initiative that's set to make a significant impact on the lives of seniors across the state.

Dubbed the 'Ticket to Wellbeing' program, this pioneering scheme is designed to empower Tasmanians over 65 to engage more fully in sports and wellbeing activities, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

Minister for Sport Nick Duigan heralded the 'Ticket to Wellbeing' as a 'national first’, a program that will bridge the gap between older residents and the wealth of opportunities that await them in their local areas.

The Tasmanian Government introduced a new initiative providing $100 voucher to seniors to get active. Credit: Ticket to Wellbeing

'We know how important those opportunities are, and that’s what we want to do through this project,' Duigan explained.

‘We want to make it easier for them to get out and enjoy a healthy lifestyle because we know that joining a sporting club or something of that nature is not only good for your physical wellbeing, it’s also very good for your mental wellbeing as well.’

The initiative is not just about physical activity; it's a holistic approach to wellbeing.

Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Roger Jaensch emphasised the multifaceted benefits of the program.

'For older Tasmanians, we know that…to be somewhere where people are expecting you to join in a group activity and maintain the social contact that comes from that, as well as the physical exercise that the activity provides, is absolutely essential,' he said.

‘That’s great for people. It’s also good for clubs and the other members in them to have older Tasmanians in their space, in their organisation, sharing their knowledge and perspectives and life experience as well.’

The 'Ticket to Wellbeing' operates as a grants scheme over two years, with each eligible senior receiving two $100 vouchers annually.

These vouchers can be redeemed at various sporting clubs, including badminton, pickleball, and many others, offering a diverse range of activities to suit all interests and abilities.

Brigid Wilkinson, CEO of the Council on the Ageing Tasmania, praised the program for recognising the importance of equity in service and support for seniors.

‘All of these clubs have volunteers, a huge majority over 60, so I think it’s really important to show that we value all ages in the community, including the really valuable contributions that older Tasmanians continue to make to their local communities,’ she said.

The vouchers for the 'Ticket to Wellbeing' program will become available in the new year through the Ticket to Wellbeing website.

Key Takeaways

• The Tasmanian Government has launched a 'Ticket to Wellbeing' program to encourage seniors over 65 to engage in sport and wellbeing activities.
• The initiative, described as a 'national first', will provide seniors with two $100 vouchers annually to access local sporting clubs and activities.
• The program is focused not only on physical health but also on enhancing the mental wellbeing of older individuals through community connection and social interaction.
• The initiative also values the contributions of older Tasmanians to their communities, with recognition of their roles as volunteers and club members.

Have you been waiting for an opportunity like this to get more active in your community? What activities are you most excited to try with your vouchers? Share your thoughts and plans in the comments below!

 

[Iggydi]

If you lived in Tasmania no way would you be dressed like that and happy to jump into a pool that is not heated or undercover