PAAMOA help get our seniors fit

PAAMOA held a coffee morning at Bruno's yesterday for some 100 of its members–  the group is a non-profit making registered Charity which organises and provides a variety of exercise classes free of charge for senior citizens in Gibraltar. The idea of the coffee morning was to use this as a social get-together for the members as well as to present some 'pamper' vouchers as gifts to their instructors both as a gesture and expression of the members’ sincere thanks for their time.

“PAAMOA members are very much aware and extremely grateful that our classes have been fully funded by sponsorships and donations, which enables us to plan a sustainable programme of exercise classes throughout the year. However, these 'pamper' vouchers are just a small way of our members expressing their thanks personally,” said Sue Boulter, Secretary and Treasurer for PAAMOA.

“These gifts were purchased by a collection from all our members, who appreciate the way our instructors go above and beyond the call of duty, and the kindness and concern they express about each

member in their class.”

The classes are designed to suit the physical abilities of members, including adapting exercises to accommodate the aging process and health issues. The classes are held in a safe environment, delivered by professionally trained instructors and aim to help keep their members more mobile and encourage independent living.

From October 2014 through to June 2016, PAAMOA provided just under 500 exercise classes, encompassing aqua-fit, aqua-aerobics, Pilates, Mobility, Movement and music including chair exercises for the less mobile and a separate aqua class for frail older adults. In addition to the physical benefits of these classes, they also seek to make it a fun experience for members and to encourage friendship and community spirit through various organised events.

These events include a very sociable 'coffee and a chat' after each class, coffee mornings, coach trips into Spain, Christmas Dinner Dance, plus fundraising events such as Bingo evenings, sponsored swims and walks.

“PAAMOA also receives a steady number of patient referrals from doctors, physiotherapists and dieticians working in the Gibraltar Health Authority and in private practice, who appreciate the large health benefits these small changes in lifestyle can make. The endorsement of these health care professionals show PAAMOA's programmes can enhance the lives of Gibraltar's mature older citizens and help them lead a healthier, active and more independent life,” said Mrs Boulter.

PAAMOA currently has over 350 members for whom they provide these services. The Membership is free for the over 60's and only requires a health screening form to be completed, to ensure their instructors are aware of any health or mobility issues, prior to people taking exercise. The Sponsorships, donations, help and support PAAMOA has received this year include HM Government of Gibraltar, GBC Open Day Trust, Kusuma Trust, GSLA, Gibraltar Red Cross and the Rotary Club of Gibraltar.

“PAAMOA is grateful all those who have been so kind as to support the charity, which is trying to help keep the senior citizens of Gibraltar more mobile.”