Stepping On In Harden

Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) is continuing in partnership with the Mercy Care Centre to deliver the Stepping On falls prevention program in Harden from Tuesday, May 14.

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 live at home and who have fallen or are afraid of falling.

Stepping On facilitator and physiotherapist Laura Rixon said the program helped older people keep their independence and gave them confidence in their mobility so they are able to go about their daily activities safely and without fear of falling.

“During the program we will show participants some simple exercises to improve strength and balance,” Ms Rixon said.

“We’ll also have some education sessions from other local health professionals on a range of topics such as vision, home hazards and medicines.”

Currently around one in three people aged over 65 fall each year, with many falls causing injuries and sometimes even requiring a stay in hospital. Stepping On has been rolled out to more than 30 communities across the MLHD.

The weekly sessions will be held at the Murrumburrah-Harden District Hospital, 53 Scott Street, Harden. Sessions will run weekly commencing at 1:30 pm. Call Mercy Care Centre on 6382 8444 for further info.

• Topics:

• Health & Wellness
• Community Groups
• What's on