A Sunshine Coast wellbeing program for older local residents is proving you don’t have to be a gym junkie or Tai Chi master to see the mental and physical health benefits of staying active and mobile.
A 10-week program called Mind and Motion developed by community services organisation Be (formerly ComLink) and The Allied Health Team aims to create a social environment and promote healthier habits.
Mind and Motion has plans for expansion across QLD in 2021 after the concept was developed by local allied health professionals and Be’s Community and Wellbeing Program Architect Dr Amanda Clacy.
“The program brings together clients for social and wellbeing support, fostering new client friendships and supporting older residents to build skills and healthier habits for ageing,” Dr Clacy said.
The program creates a regular and varied exercise routine for participants to develop physical strength and mobility. Mind and Motion will also focus on mindfulness, healthy sleep and eating well.
“Each week will cover a new theme and offer program participants an opportunity to further build their skills, confidence and feel a sense of self-satisfaction and achievement,” Dr Clacy said.
Exercise Physiologist Brad Duff from The Allied Health Team, who helped develop the program, said it followed a successful US model.
“It’s never too late to start exercising and feeling good,” Duff said.
“The program is based on the current American College of Sports Medicine guidelines for exercise for older adults and age-appropriate goals of increasing mobility, falls prevention, and moving for life.”
Older adults interested in taking part in the Sunshine Coast program should contact Be on 1300 761 011.
