"Kayaking for Good Health in Older Age"

AGE CONCERN MEDIA RELEASE: 27 APRIL 2001

"Kayaking for Good Health in Older Age"

Fresh from his 610km cycle ride across the breadth of the North Island just two weeks ago, dynamic Philip Marcroft, 62 years of age, is about to embark on a circumnavigation of Lake Taupo by kayak.

The journey by kayak is Philip Marcroft's way of spreading his message on active ageing. "Staying active is important for good health in older age. So is a positive attitude and the ability to adapt to new challenges", Mr Marcroft says. "Staying physically active keeps me fit and in good spirits. Older age is very much a state of mind and by keeping active both my mind and body benefit."

Age Concern Taupo are supporting Philip Marcroft in his journey. "Active ageing adds life to years and Mr Marcroft is a wonderful role model," says Garth Taylor, Chief Executive of Age Concern New Zealand.

"While some of us may not be able to take on quite the level of physical challenge Mr Marcroft enjoys, we can all be inspired by his commitment, drive and energy," Garth Taylor says.

Each of us can benefit from increasing our level of activity. Just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week offers significant health benefits, including such activity as gardening, walking to the shops or up the stairs, and doing housework.

"As well as activity, also important for good health in older age is an attitude of mind that means we actively continue to learn and try new things, to seek satisfaction in the things we do, and feel secure and good about ourselves, our future and our achievements. In that Philip Marcroft has much to celebrate and to demonstrate," Garth Taylor says.

ENDS

Age Concern is a not-for-profit, charitable organisation working to promote the well-being and quality of life of older people in New Zealand, since 1948.

For further information please contact: First contact: Garth Taylor, Chief Executive (wk) 04 471 2709 or (mobile) 025 243 6991 Second contact: Anneke Dinnington, Office Manager, Age Concern Taupo, (wk) 07 378 9712

Philip Marcroft can be contacted for interviews on (mobile) 025 230 2762.

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