Finnish playground therapy

On the BBC Today Programme this morning there was a report about the use of playground activities to improve health and well-being in older adults. Apparently a study has shown great improvements in the participants' health and mobility through regular use of playground equipment. The great thing is that the participants used normal playgrounds alongside children. Finland boasts that it is family-friendly and this initiative certainly seems to bear that out. All ages are encouraged to use a playground together as a family activity and Finnish playground equipment manufacturers are providing extra-strong ("for use by all ages") equipment. There was a great visual image created in my mind by the newscaster's description of two old ladies being bounced high in the air on a seesaw - I could hear them giggling in the background. In terms of occupation, this is much more natural than isolated exercise and movement. It draws on previous experiences, engages the whole body and takes place in a normal environment. It promotes social inclusion by strengthening family and community participation. Thanks to Julie b. for the links to the story and research.