Stepping On In Harden

One in three people aged over 65 years falls each year, posing a significant cost to the community and the health system.

Young’s Mercy Care Centre delivered the first of a seven-week Stepping On falls prevention program in Harden on Tuesday, July 19.

Falls pose a significant cost to the community and the health system, but Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) has partnered with the Mercy Care Centre and similar organisations across the region to lower that cost.

The free NSW Ministry of Health initiative was designed for people living at home who have fallen or who fear falling.

Stepping On facilitator, Lauren McRae said the program helped older people have their independence and gave them confidence in their mobility.

“So they are able to go about their daily activities safely and without the fear of falling,” Ms McRae said. The program includes simple group exercises to improve strength and balance as well as education on a range of topics such as vision, home hazards and medicines.

It also provides an opportunity for participants to socialise.

The group runs for two hours each week for a seven-week block, followed by a refresher session two months later.

Stepping On has been rolled out in more than 30 communities across the MLHD.

Weekly sessions will be held at the Harden Hospital commencing at 1:30 pm on Tuesdays.

For more information on the program or to book, contact the Mercy Care Centre on 6382 8444.

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• Health & Wellness