European Models of Leisure Policies and Physical Activity Programs for Elderly People

Abstract

Leisure policies for the elderly population in Europe have been primarily concerned with promoting active lifestyles for health benefits and quality of life. In terms of provision, there exists a profusion of organizations with an interest in sport and physical recreation for the elderly citizens. Programs are offered by a range of private, voluntary, statutory and commercial agencies within the fields of education, medicine and health, social welfare, government, trade unions and religion. Examples of policy initiatives and programs from different sources and from various European countries are presented. The implications of this complexity and diversity both at present and in the future are discussed and some concluding remarks are given if further development is to be effective.

Keywords:

• Leisure
• Sports Policies
• European Countries
• Elderly