Preventing falls with Mandurah older adults
(L-R) Jessica McCracken (SMHS), Delys Griffin (City of Mandurah), Kellie Wilson (City of Mandurah), Karen Carey (Injury Matters), Sam Menzes (Injury Matters) and Catherine Dumont (Foodbank WA).
Mandurah locals were recently treated to a free workshop series, aimed towards preventing falls in the local community and helping older adults improve their health.
The collaborative initiative between South Metropolitan Health Service (SMHS) Health Promotion and the City of Mandurah received a grant from Injury Matters, as part of the Stay On Your Feet (external link) ‘Improve Your Health’ grants program.
SMHS Health Promotion Manager Richard Crane explained falls are a significant risk for older adults, but are thankfully preventable.
“Falls and falls-related injuries are the leading cause of injury hospitalisation for older adults in the Mandurah community,” Richard said.
“Keeping on top of your health is a key part of staying independent and preventing falls as you age.
“Eating a nutritious diet, knowing your medications and their side effects, and keeping your mind alert are all important to stay healthy.”
Held in the Mandurah Seniors and Community Centre over three consecutive Fridays in April and May, 56 community members and 19 staff and volunteers attended.
Workshop attendees had the opportunity to hear from a local pharmacist, Foodbank WA nutritionist and a local artist, who encouraged older adults to:
- eat regular meals from a variety of food groups
- to stay strong have medications reviewed annually by a general practitioner (GP) or pharmacist
- challenge their mind regularly by trying something new.
Mandurah Mayor Rhys Williams said the City of Mandurah is committed to providing opportunities for older adults in the community to improve their health and wellbeing.
“We’re proud to have partnered with SMHS to offer these workshops to help our community be safe and healthy,” Mayor Williams said.
“The City’s Public Health and Wellbeing Plan for 2020 – 2023 promotes active lifestyles and social connection for healthy ageing.
“We hope to host further falls prevention workshops in the future to reach more of our community’s seniors.”
