Malaysia’s aging population is expanding faster than projected, with more than 17% of the population expected to be over 60 by 2040, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). This demographic trend suggests that more elderly will have mobility issues, limiting their independence and overall well-being.
Sarcopenia, or age-related loss of muscular mass and strength, affects up to 59.8% of older persons in the Klang Valley. This disorder reduces strength and mobility, increasing the risk of falls, fractures, and overall health deterioration, resulting in decreased independence and quality of life.
Read also – AirAsia Rewards Expands Loyalty Solutions for Businesses to Enhance Customer Engagement
Recognizing these problems, Alpro Pharmacy teamed with Believe Fitness to develop the Silver Sneakers Project, a focused endeavor to improve seniors’ health and well-being through structured fitness sessions guided by Alpro Physio physiotherapists. The goal is to help older persons gain muscle, improve their physical health, and improve their quality of life, lowering their risk of falling.
The Silver Sneakers Project is specifically developed for seniors 55 and over, focusing on seniors in danger of falling or those wishing to maintain and enhance their physical fitness.
The workout programs were devised by physiotherapists and experts in posture and mobility. Physiotherapists design workout routines tailored to the elderly’s daily activity needs. Exercises simulate everyday activities like bending down to pick up objects, ascending stairs, and lifting hands to reach for goods, providing practical advantages that immediately improve mobility and independence.
Regular physical activity is essential for avoiding and decreasing muscle loss (sarcopenia), increasing balance and coordination, strengthening bones and joints, and boosting cardiovascular and respiratory health. Seniors in these structured sessions can lower their risk of falling, gain confidence and independence, and improve their general well-being.
“At Believe Fitness, we are committed to empowering everyone, including seniors, with the strength and stability they need to lead active and independent lives. Through our partnership with Alpro Pharmacy, we aim to provide a safe and engaging environment where elderly participants can regain confidence in their mobility and reduce the risk of falls.” – Patrick Davis, Managing Director of Believe Fitness.
“The Silver Sneakers Project is a vital step towards proactive senior healthcare. At Alpro Pharmacy, we have established Silvercare, a dedicated team focused on elderly care, supported by healthcare professionals. We believe in holistic health solutions, and exercise is one of the key components in preventing falls and maintaining independence. This collaboration with Believe Fitness allows us to bring professional, guided fitness programs to seniors, ensuring they receive the care and support they need.” – Gan Chi Tat, Project Leader of Silver Sneakers Project at Alpro Pharmacy.
He was inspired to initiate this project after witnessing the struggles of Madam Li, his auntie, who lost her independence due to a fall. Once an independent woman, she found herself confined to a wheelchair, her confidence shattered, and her family’s daily life upended. Seeing how one fall could disrupt an entire household, he realised that prevention was the key to preserving not just mobility, but dignity and independence. This project is his mission to ensure seniors have the strength and support to live life on their own terms.
