Falls and Balance Classes Support Wellbeing
Resthaven Western Community Services have been working with local retirement village, Woodbridge, to support older people living in the western suburbs to remain independent.
Manager, Franco Parenti, says, ‘The connection between Resthaven Western Community Services and Woodbridge began in 2019, when we introduced a falls and balance class in the village.’
‘The class has been very well received by the residents who attend the classes each Tuesday afternoon. Not only has it supported their wellbeing, but also created a wider social interaction between village residents.’
‘Participants undertake a range of exercises, along with a warm up and cool down.’
‘Prior to commencing, clients undergo a balance assessment by an occupational therapist. After this, they are allocated to the class based on their individual needs, which are reviewed every four months.’
Feedback from clients include:
‘Before, I could not do the sit to stand up from a chair without pushing up from the armrests, but now I can do it with my arms crossed at my chest.’
‘I feel good with the class. Not only just having exercise but also socialising with others. The quiz questions and the “clock” exercise are good for the cognition.’
‘I cannot come every week, but I will do these exercises at home. It is good.’
Franco says, ‘The program has been so successful that we have some exciting new program developments in talks – watch this space!’
Resthaven Western Community Services offers a range of wellness services, including occupational therapy, physiotherapy, podiatry, group exercise programs, social support and respite, as well as in-home care and support services for people living throughout the western suburbs. For details phone 8345 0577.
Celebrating 85 years in 2020, Resthaven Incorporated is a not for profit, South Australian aged care community service associated with the Uniting Church. Resthaven’s residential and in-home care and support options are offered throughout metropolitan Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, Murraylands, Riverland, Barossa, Fleurieu Peninsula and the Limestone Coast.