Project lead: Civil Society Organisation

• Local authorities
• Civil Society Organisation
• Older People’s Association
• Social or health care provider
• Volunteers
• Private sector

How collaboration worked: AKSAM 2025 was made possible through a collaborative effort between multiple stakeholders, ensuring smooth project management and sustainable funding. The event was spearheaded by MAGICS NGO and CEDAC, with the Kochi Municipal Corporation acting as a key facilitator. Institutional partners such as the Candor Aura, Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Geriatric Society of India (GSI) provided medical support, ensuring participant safety. Neo Film school along with interns in media provided support in photography, videos, social media promotoins and doccumentation. Title sponsor VPS Lakeshore contributed financial and medical aid, including an ICU ambulance, while Manappuram Finance Ltd. supported event logistics. Volunteers from educational institutions played a crucial role in coordination. This multi-sector partnership exemplifies a sustainable age-friendly model.

Older people’s involvement: Older people were involved in the age-friendly practice at multiple or all stages

Details on older people’s involvement: Older persons were not just participants but also key decision-makers in planning the event, ensuring it truly reflected their needs and aspirations. Their involvement in logistics, mentorship, and advocacy for healthy ageing reinforced the event’s purpose of promoting lifelong fitness and social inclusion. By taking ownership of AKSAM, they set an inspiring example of active ageing, proving that sports and physical well-being have no age limit.

Has the impact of this age-friendly practice been analysed: No

Do you plan to evaluate your age-friendly practice? Yes

Feedback:
AKSAM 2025 received overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants, stakeholders, and spectators. Many senior athletes expressed their gratitude for the free registration, quality food, and hydration support, which ensured their well-being throughout the event. The provision of unlimited water, electrolytes, and glucose sachets was particularly praised, as it helped older participants maintain their energy levels. Athletes also appreciated receiving a specially designed T-shirt, which fostered a sense of identity and camaraderie. The medals and certificates, combined with the unique crowning ceremony on the victory stand, made every achievement feel special and memorable. The presence of enthusiastic volunteers who assisted athletes, cheered them on, and helped capture their moments through photography was a highlight, creating an uplifting atmosphere of encouragement and motivation. However, some areas for improvement were also highlighted. A few participants suggested adding more shaded rest areas to prevent fatigue, particularly for those waiting between events. Others recommended increasing medical personnel on-site for better emergency preparedness. There were also suggestions to introduce more structured warm-up sessions to prevent injuries. These valuable insights will be used to enhance future editions of AKSAM, ensuring an even better experience for senior athletes while continuing to promote active and healthy ageing.

Expansion plans:
AKSAM is not just a one-time event but a growing movement promoting lifelong fitness for older adults. We plan to expand by introducing district-level qualifiers leading up to the state-level meet, encouraging wider participation. More inclusive sporting activities and fun games will be added to attract seniors of all fitness levels. International participation from age-friendly network cities is also envisioned. Additionally, community-based fitness programs and year-round training sessions will be introduced to sustain engagement. Collaborations with medical institutions and physiotherapists will help ensure safe participation, reinforcing AKSAM as a model age-friendly sports initiative.

Reflections:
Organizing AKSAM was an eye-opening experience, reinforcing the importance of structured sports events in promoting active ageing. One key learning was the need for better pre-event fitness assessments to ensure participants’ safety. While the event provided excellent medical support, additional physiotherapy and warm-up sessions could further reduce injury risks. Another challenge was transportation for athletes from distant locations, which could be improved with designated travel arrangements. Accessibility considerations, such as more seating areas and shaded rest zones, will also be prioritized in future editions. Enhanced media outreach can further amplify AKSAM’s impact, encouraging more older adults to engage in regular fitness activities beyond the event. The overwhelming response highlights the potential to integrate year-round training programs, ensuring that AKSAM remains not just an event but a movement for lifelong health and well-being.

Challenges:
AKSAM 2025 faced several challenges, including initial hesitation among older adults to participate in competitive sports due to health concerns. This was addressed through awareness campaigns and free registration. Logistics and accessibility issues were managed by coordinating transport and volunteer support. Medical preparedness was a priority, with Candor Aura and VPS Lakeshore providing an ICU ambulance and on-site medical teams. To combat heat and fatigue, multiple hydration stations, electrolyte drinks, and shaded rest areas were set up. Event management for over 500 athletes required structured scheduling and a strong volunteer team. Recognizing all participants was also crucial, so every athlete received a T-shirt, and winners were crowned with traditional coconut leaf crowns before receiving medals and certificates. A dedicated photography booth allowed them to capture memories. These solutions ensured a smooth and enjoyable event, reinforcing AKSAM as an annual platform for health and fitness.