South West Community Transport says it will use a $10,000 grant to provide transport, education, and professionally facilitated exercise sessions to those over 65 to improve their health and mental wellbeing.
Through its Easy Moves for Active Ageing program, it aims to improve the health and mental well-being of its over-65 community across six LGAs in South Western Sydney.
“The project aims to provide safe, effective physical activity for seniors, allowing participants to maintain and improve their functional abilities,’’ says program coordinator Carissa Zielonka.
“The weekly program includes transportation to and from home, face-to-face classes run by our qualified facilitator, and a complimentary morning tea that follows each class.”
According to recent ABS data only 41.8 percent of elderly Australians engage in physical movement.
To increase these figures, the Mable Community Grant will supplement an additional third class in each week’s roster.
It’s an opportunity welcomed by Miss Zielonka.
“It’s all about independence, and this helps for them to stay independent for longer; these classes are vital in the reduction of falls and the need for a move into an aged care facility in many instances,” she says.
But it’s not just the physical benefits that motivate participants to get moving each week.
“The social inclusion is massive; this class is a highlight of the week for many clients as it gets them out of the four walls of their homes and allows them to socialise with others within their community,” Miss Zielonka said.
Backed by 25 years of Australian research, the Easy Moves for Active Aging program ensures that classes are implemented and continually improved, with movements tailored to the physical abilities of all its participants.
With the added support of this year’s Mable Community Grant, the project hopes to encourage other elderly residents to prioritise their mobility, agility, and mental well-being through daily movement.
You can find out more about the project at www.swct.com.au.
