Sligo Leitrim Parkrun’s welcome people living with Dementia

Parkrun’s in Sligo and Leitrim are welcoming people living with Dementia, their families and carers to take part in their local runs.

The HSE and Parkrun Ireland have recently launched a Dementia Friendly Parkrun Manual.

The manual reflects Parkrun’s ongoing commitment to removing barriers to participation and promoting physical, social, and mental wellbeing for all. Parkrun Ireland have been working with HSE Health and Wellbeing for many years supporting and driving engagement in physical activity.

This new initiative is designed to make Parkrun’s across the country more welcoming and inclusive for people living with dementia.

People with dementia or family members who are caring for a person with dementia may consider taking part or volunteering in their local Parkrun as a good physical or social activity.

Doing things with others and taking part in worthwhile activities can improve the quality of life of people living with dementia. It may also slow the development of dementia. Parkrun is a safe and friendly way to get regular activity. Whether walking, jogging or running - anyone can join in.

Speaking about the initiative, Professor Paula Hickey, Consultant Geriatrician Sligo University Hospital said “I am delighted to support the Dementia Friendly Parkrun Manual. This is a valuable initiative to create a welcoming space for people living with dementia, their family, friends and carers. Maintaining an active life with social engagement is such a fundamental part of living well with dementia, this practical action can make a big difference and helps promote inclusive friendly communities.”

Parkrun is a free weekly run, jog or walk for all, taking place on Saturday mornings at 9.30am.

Local locations in Sligo and Leitrim are:

Sligo Parkrun - Doorly Park, Cleveragh, Sligo

Tubbercurry Trail Parkrun- Tubbercurry Trail, Ballina Rd, Rathscanlon, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo

Glenfarne Wood Parkrun- Glenfarne Wood, Moneyduff, Co. Leitrim.

Ballinamore Greenway Parkrun- Ballinamore Greenway, Ballinamore, Co Leitrim.

The manual is available to order free of charge from www.healthpromotion.ie (direct link: https://www.healthpromotion.ie/products/hse-your-parkrun-and-dementia-manual).

The Dementia: Understand Together campaign, led by the HSE in partnership with The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Age Friendly Ireland, Age and Opportunity, the Dementia Services Information and Development Centre, and Healthy Ireland, aims to raise awareness and reduce stigma around dementia.

You can find out more about the Dementia: Understand Together campaign at www.understandtogether.ie.