The Ah Ma Flippa Ball team, comprised of women in their 60s to 80s, exemplifies Singapore's initiative to keep seniors active and engaged. Through a modified version of water polo designed for children, this team not only encourages exercise but also fosters a growing sense of community, reflecting the country's changing attitudes toward aging.
Grandmas Go for Gold: Singapore’s Ah Ma Flippa Ball Team Breaks Stereotypes
Grandmas Go for Gold: Singapore’s Ah Ma Flippa Ball Team Breaks Stereotypes
A group of spirited grandmothers in Singapore showcases how seniors are redefining aging through sports and community engagement.
In Singapore, the traditional image of aging is undergoing a transformation fueled by an active lifestyle embraced by an unexpected group: grandmothers. The Ah Ma Flippa Ball team, derived from the Chinese dialect term for grandmother, is leading the charge in challenging perceptions of senior citizens through competitive sport. The team is primarily made up of women in their 60s, 70s, and 80s who compete in flippa ball, a modified children's version of water polo, displaying both enthusiasm and skill during each practice session.
On a recent Tuesday, players were seen playfully tussling over the ball, with one member humorously demanding an intervention from the coach against a backdrop of laughter and camaraderie. The scene showcases how the sport not only promotes physical health but also cultivates a vibrant community spirit among the participants.
This initiative aligns with Singapore's broader strategy to adapt to its shifting demographics, as nearly 20% of the population now exceeds the age of 65. Recognizing the need to support this growing demographic, the government has implemented policies to encourage the senior population to remain active. With an increasing life expectancy reaching 84 years, initiatives include raising the retirement age and introducing a re-employment age for older workers. Furthermore, financial incentives for older citizens and community outreach programs, known as “Silver Generation Ambassadors,” aim to foster greater social interaction and encourage seniors to engage in various activities, from exercise to learning new skills.
The Ah Ma Flippa Ball team’s inception can be traced back to 2016, when a sports official recognized the potential for older women to participate in sports instead of just a children's class. Ting Kum Luen, the team’s coach, initially met this opportunity with skepticism but soon discovered the energy and passion these women brought to the game. The team's fun-loving approach demonstrates that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing health and wellness, reinforcing the notion that it’s never too late to dive into new experiences.
Overall, the Ah Ma Flippa Ball team is not just an athletic group; they're emblematic of Singapore’s vision for an inclusive society where seniors thrive. They embody a breaking away from stereotypes, proving that with the right encouragement and community support, older adults can lead vigorous and fulfilling lives.
On a recent Tuesday, players were seen playfully tussling over the ball, with one member humorously demanding an intervention from the coach against a backdrop of laughter and camaraderie. The scene showcases how the sport not only promotes physical health but also cultivates a vibrant community spirit among the participants.
This initiative aligns with Singapore's broader strategy to adapt to its shifting demographics, as nearly 20% of the population now exceeds the age of 65. Recognizing the need to support this growing demographic, the government has implemented policies to encourage the senior population to remain active. With an increasing life expectancy reaching 84 years, initiatives include raising the retirement age and introducing a re-employment age for older workers. Furthermore, financial incentives for older citizens and community outreach programs, known as “Silver Generation Ambassadors,” aim to foster greater social interaction and encourage seniors to engage in various activities, from exercise to learning new skills.
The Ah Ma Flippa Ball team’s inception can be traced back to 2016, when a sports official recognized the potential for older women to participate in sports instead of just a children's class. Ting Kum Luen, the team’s coach, initially met this opportunity with skepticism but soon discovered the energy and passion these women brought to the game. The team's fun-loving approach demonstrates that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing health and wellness, reinforcing the notion that it’s never too late to dive into new experiences.
Overall, the Ah Ma Flippa Ball team is not just an athletic group; they're emblematic of Singapore’s vision for an inclusive society where seniors thrive. They embody a breaking away from stereotypes, proving that with the right encouragement and community support, older adults can lead vigorous and fulfilling lives.
