Statistics showing one in three people over the age of 65 will fall every year were enough to convince Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) James Wickham something had to be done.
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Dr Wickham, a lecturer in human anatomy and physiology is running a trial to promote healthy ageing.
The trial run by CSU in conjunction with the George Institute, needs another 170 people, in groups of 10 for the next 12 months.
“Over time, agility disappears, but there’s no reason it has to, we’re trying to get people to move more and fall less,” Dr Wickham said.
“When you go to hospital, after a heart attack or for a knee replacement, you get a few weeks of rehab, but then you’re left on your own.
“This is where a health coach comes in and helps people manage their recovery.”
Dr Wickham isn’t just thinking about people with a medical issue, however, but people who are over the age of 60. He wants to influence health policy.
People can nominate a goal they want to achieve during the 12 month trial, whether it be walking a little further, getting on or off the floor or improving their balance.
“A health coach is a key aspect of this study to keep participants on track, it’s like their own personal cheer leader,” Dr Wickham said.
As the study’s health coach, physiotherapist Shona Manning has worked with 130 people over 12 months in the trial and said a lot of people had enjoyed the challenge.
“The majority of participants have said the study has opened their eyes up to their physical capability and encouraged them to pursue their old hobbies,” Ms Manning said.
Orange’s Peter Boyd has completed 12 months in the study and has kept following the program, he said he’s enjoyed physical benefits.
“I feel better physically as well as mentally, it’s brightened up my attitude,” he said.
“I can spend three hours on my hands and knees working in the garden.”
Mr Boyd said after his wife died he had to “re-assemble” himself and the study had a made a difference.
He’s since become heavily active in Rotary, become regular at the gym and even started attending a Tai Chi class.
“You really get up and get going. I might be getting older, but I’ll give it a good go.”
Groups interested in participating can contact Kate Sharkey on 6365 7774.
Declan Rurenga
Declan Rurenga was the editor of Griffith's Area News and Leeton's Irrigator until September 2023. Before landing at the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, he reported news in Junee, Wagga Wagga, Orange and Cootamundra.
Declan Rurenga was the editor of Griffith's Area News and Leeton's Irrigator until September 2023. Before landing at the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area, he reported news in Junee, Wagga Wagga, Orange and Cootamundra.
