The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has unveiled an innovative initiative to address the challenges of an aging population by introducing its Aging Society Program in Jakarta, Indonesia. This program aims to showcase how sports can serve as a vital tool for improving health and reducing the social costs associated with population aging.

The event, held as part of preparations for the 53rd Artistic Gymnastics World Championships, brought together 115 participants, including an impressive 93-year-old athlete. The joint initiative between FIG, the Indonesian Gymnastics Federation, the Indonesian National Olympic Committee, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports marks a significant step in understanding how sports can enhance the well-being of older adults.

INNOVATION TO SUPPORT AGING

The program features a groundbreaking mobile application that allows seniors to monitor their health, perform gymnastics exercises at home, and share medical data with specialized institutions. According to Watanabe, a program representative, this tool will create a comprehensive ecosystem benefiting not only older adults but also businesses across various sectors.

The large-scale implementation is set for October during the Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta, where a model region will be designated to develop the program further. The ultimate goal is to offer an innovative solution to one of the world’s biggest challenges: rising social costs associated with aging populations, proving that sports can be a powerful tool to maintain health and quality of life in older age.