Walking Football as Medicine (WFAM) Programme

This week marked the completion of the six-week Walking Football as Medicine (WFAM) initiative, delivered by Age & Opportunity at Inspire Fitness, Cabra. The programme offered a fun, non-contact version of football designed for older adults and those living with chronic conditions, including Parkinson’s.

Walking football provides gentle, enjoyable exercise that supports balance, coordination and mobility — areas that can be affected by Parkinson’s. The slower pace and no-contact rules make it safe and accessible, while the friendly, social atmosphere helps reduce isolation and boost mood. Each session finished with refreshments and conversation, building a real sense of community among participants. The six-week series showed that physical activity truly can be medicine — for body and mind alike.

Parkinson’s Ireland extends sincere thanks to Age & Opportunity and Inspire Fitness for facilitating such an uplifting and inclusive programme. We hope to see more initiatives like this rolled out across the country in future.