Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I want to speak about seniors developing and maintaining physical literacy. Physical literacy is a long-time journey; however, it doesn't matter if you start when you're older. It is about a life choice that you need to make. Mr. Speaker, there are lot of different interpretations of physical literacy, but the one I like is each person's level of physical literacy partly depends on the fundamental movement skills, confidence level, degree of motivation and the ABC's of movement which is agility, balance, coordination and speed.
Mr. Speaker, people believe that the term "fundamental movement skills" is very similar as physical literacy. I believe this is a mistake. In fact, fundamental movement skills are only one important element of physical literacy. According to the Canadian Sports Centre, fundamental movement skills include basic movement such as throwing, kicking, running, jumping, hopping and catching. For most, these skills are learnt as a child; it creates a solid physical ability foundation. A good way to understand these concepts is to take fundamental movement skills as building blocks of physical literacy. Although fundamental movement skills and ABCs of movement can be learned at any age, it typically takes more time and practice for older adults to develop fundamental movement skills, especially compared to their childhood or teenage years. However, in saying this, it is never too late to start.
Mr. Speaker, older adults need to have a minimum level of physical literacy to gain the health and other benefits associated with participating in physical activities such as sports, exercise, work-related activities, and daily leaving.
People need to recognize that over time, adult physical literacy may diminish depending on factors such as lifestyle, health status, age, participation in sport, regular physical activity, workplace demands and work environments, daily habits, and preferred interests. Mr. Speaker, a person's level of physical literacy directly impacts daily living activities. It is important to start and maintain physical literacy as it helps individuals to gain associated health benefits. As important as physical literacy is, I am not sure the government is doing enough for the older adults of our population. Today I will have questions for the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.