Stepping On In Harden

Murrumbidgee Local Health District is continuing its partnership with the Mercy Care Centre Young to deliver the Stepping On falls prevention program in Harden from Tuesday 5th March.

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

This free NSW Ministry of Health initiative is designed for people who are living at home and who have fallen or have a fear of falling. “The Stepping On program helps older people keep their independence and gives them confidence to stay active, so they can go about their daily activities safely and without the fear of falling,” Stepping On facilitator and physiotherapist Victoria Tatham said.

The program includes simple group exercise to improve strength and balance as well as education on a range of topics such as vision, home hazards and medicines. It is also an opportunity to socialise with other participants.

Mercy Care Centre Young Operations Manager and Director of Nursing Mary-Lou Cusack is pleased the program is returning to Harden. “It is a great opportunity for older members of the community to come together socially while engaging in education and exercise,” Ms Cusack said.

Falls pose a significant cost to the community and the health system with one in three people aged over 65 falling each year.

Stepping On has been conducted in more than 30 communities across the Murrumbidgee Local Health District.

The weekly sessions will be held at Harden Hospital on Tuesdays commencing at 1.00pm. For further information or to book, please call 6382 8490 or 6386 2200. For more information about the Stepping On program please visit https://www.mlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/healthy-living/physical-activity/stepping-on-program or phone Carly Barnes, Program Coordinator on 6080 8912.

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