These 'nanzones' will help senior soccer fans combat loneliness while watching UEFA Euros 2024

The UEFA Euros 2024 has begun, and fans are excited to watch the games and cheer for their teams. However, senior soccer fans often end up watching from home, their enthusiasm overlooked. This year, Asda has launched a brilliant initiative to change that. The company has created “nanzones” specifically for senior fans to cheer on their favorite teams together. These areas are designed to cater to the needs of senior fans, ensuring they have an enriching experience just like everyone else.

The first "nanzone" has been launched in Watford, Manchester, and Liverpool, starting with the England vs. Denmark game on June 20th. According to research, nearly 1.9 million senior citizens over 65 are eager to actively participate in the tournament. However, age-related restrictions often prevent them from enjoying it fully. This year, that has changed beautifully. The “nanzones” encourage older people to cheer for their teams in comfort and safety, with free provisions of snacks, drinks, and other necessities. Seniors will also enjoy the company of fellow fans supporting their team.

One major aim of creating the “nanzones” is to combat isolation and loneliness. Many older people are forced to watch matches alone at home, which increases feelings of loneliness. Asda has been campaigning about this on Instagram, with a team of “nanfluencers” ready to welcome seniors enthusiastically. In one video, older fans introduce themselves, equipped in their “nansquad” or “G-unit” jerseys. The team comprises all grandparents and senior citizens eagerly anticipating the games.

One of the major aims of creating the “nanzones” is to combat isolation and loneliness. Several older people are forced to watch matches alone at home which significantly adds to the loneliness score. Asda has been campaigning the same on Instagram for quite some time. Having set up a team of “nanfluencers,” they are all set to welcome seniors with a bang. In one of the videos, the older fans are seen introducing themselves, equipped in their “nansqaud” or “G-unit” jerseys. Introducing the enthusiastic members, the team comprises all grandparents and senior citizens who are anticipating the game.

David Hills, the chief customer officer at Asda mentioned that football has been a sport for “everyone.” “Sport has a way of bringing people together like nothing else. That’s why we want to use the power of football fandom to help strengthen community spirit this summer,” he remarked. He added that the nanzones are delightfully initiated for the same purpose. He said, “The Nanzones sit at the heart of that ambition. Our colleagues and customers really care about supporting the elderly in their communities and we hope that by encouraging the nation to join our pledge to bring people together, we can help combat loneliness and social isolation.”

Another adorable video showcases seniors' pre-match routines, highlighting their competitive and sporty spirits. All the grandmas and grandpas are seen donning their jerseys, headgear, favorite merch, and snacks before the game begins. This infectious campaign emphasizes how inclusive football can be and that age is no barrier. While there's potential for more “nanzones,” seniors are already excited to be involved and acknowledged for their love of the sport. Those interested can contact “community_watford@asda.co.uk” to be a part of the “nanzone,” per Watford Observer.

You can follow Asda (@asda) on Instagram for more updates on the "nanzone" campaign and for content on lifestyle.