From May 19 to 24, 2025, the international project “Silver Vibes, Silver Energy: Physical Activity for Seniors” took place as part of the Erasmus Blended Intensive Programme.
Participants of the project included:
- 20 students and 6 academic staff from countries such as Belgium, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Croatia, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, and guest participants 13 students and 3 staff members from the USA
- 5 partner universities:
- Charles University, Czech Republic
- Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic
- University of Nicosia, Cyprus
- Veleučilište Ivanić-Grad, Croatia
- University of Maia, Portugal
- and special guest: University of Wisconsin-River Falls, USA
- 12 Polish volunteers who supported the event
- The social organization: Przestrzeń Trzeciego Wieku (Third Age Space)
- The private company: Backapp
The event gathered participants from across Europe and offered a rich educational and workshop program. It was aimed at students of physical education, sports, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy, to immerse them in the role of seniors to understand the challenges of aging better, to see what lies ahead, and to realize that aging is not the end of life — one can still stay active and enjoy life to the fullest.
One of the most remarkable experiences was wearing special simulators that allowed participants to feel the physical limitations seniors face. They could experience daily challenges related to reduced mobility, vision and hearing problems, and difficulties with balance. This unique experience sparked reflection and deepened understanding of the challenges of senior age.
Movement workshops, including dancing, games, and playful activities, provided joy and promoted physical activity as a key element of healthy aging. Students had the chance to realize that staying active and enjoying life is possible even in older age, sending an inspiring message to future generations.
The project also showcased the innovative TryVinci cradle, which supports abdominal muscle training. Thanks to its ergonomic design, the device reduces the body weight by 30% during crunches, while an integrated app tracks progress, offers coaching tips, and motivates users through gamification. This solution exemplifies how technology can support a healthy lifestyle and physical activity at every life stage.
“Silver Vibes, Silver Energy” focused not only on physical health but also on building intergenerational bonds, breaking stereotypes, and promoting empathy. Joint workshops, dancing, and fun activities with seniors from the Third Age at AWF Wrocław provided valuable lessons in cooperation and dialogue.
The event also featured workshops led by experts from partner universities:
- The Physical Activity Requirements of Older Adults and Potential Strategies for Their Fulfillment – Tiago Rafael Oliveira Moreira, University of Maia, Portugal
- Physical Activity for the Elderly, and Circuit Training for Elderly – Klára Daďová, Charles University, Czech Republic
- Eurythmic: Greek and Cyrus Dances – Elisavet Konstantinidou, University of Nicosia, Cyprus
- Exercising Through Entertainment for the Elderly – Manuela Kusec, Veleučilište Ivanić-Grad, Croatia
This exceptional event not only educated but also inspired actions aimed at improving the quality of life for seniors. The project concluded with a sports event for the entire city — “ Przewietrz się na Olimpijskim” (Get Some Fresh Air at the Olympic Stadium) — which brought together young and old in a spirit of shared activity.
The shared experiences, fun, and learning surely left lasting memories and motivation for continued efforts toward positive aging.The event was co-funded by the European Commission under the Erasmus+ program.
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