Cheryl Dimmock
ICOPE (Iluka Community Organisation Planning for Emergencies Inc.) launched Balanced Connections on Thursday 26 October, an innovative program aimed at improving the physical and mental wellbeing of seniors in Iluka and Woombah.
Balanced Connections is a free program which has been possible through a grant provided by Australia Post.
The program is designed for residents aged 65 and above and brings together the elements of balance, mental health, physical fitness and socialisation into one comprehensive package.
The first session of the program was met with great enthusiasm by the 15 participants who attended.
The program offers a unique blend of activities, informative talks and a chance for local seniors to come together, learn and socialise.
The core elements of the program include low-impact Yoga, Pilates, and Feldenkrais exercises, all adapted for seniors, with an emphasis on using chairs to provide support and safety.
These activities are designed to improve balance, flexibility and strength while being accessible to individuals with varying physical abilities.
The initial session started with Yoga presented by experienced yoga teacher Kylie Collard from Yoga Yatra.
In addition to the physical activities, the program features guest speakers who cover a wide range of topics relevant to seniors.
The session presentations focus on crucial subjects such as bushfire preparedness, ageing gracefully, managing strokes, identifying scams, mental health and Person-Cantered Emergency Preparedness (P-CEP).
These presentations are intended to provide practical and valuable information to help seniors lead safe, healthy and fulfilling lives.
The initial session’s guest speakers included Alan Carson and Tony Belton from the Iluka Rural Fire Service (RFS) who provided vital insights into preparing one’s property for bushfires, with a particular focus on the threat of ember attacks.
Their informative talk left participants with a better understanding of how to protect themselves and their homes in the face of a bushfire.
To promote socialisation and community connectedness, each morning session of the Balanced Connections program concludes with morning tea provided by Freshwater Kitchen and is an opportunity for participants to relax, chat and strengthen their social connections.
For those who missed registering in the first Balanced Connections seven-week program, another seven-week program will commence on February 15, 2024, and a third program on May 23, 2024.
If you’re a senior resident of Iluka or Woombah and interested in participating in these upcoming programs, you can secure your spot by calling 0498 219 846.