12 July 2007

Gloucester Community Health Centre would like to invite all interested people over 55 to an information session on healthy lifestyle habits being held on Friday 20 July starting at 10.00am.

Many people think that we are supposed to slow down as we age, but slowing down need not mean grinding to a halt. Keeping active, in mind and body, is just as important as we age, and is a critical component in warding off many chronic diseases.

The information session, Mind Your Mind, looks at ways you can protect yourself against decline in health and includes information specifically relating to your ability to think and remember.

Gloucester Community Health’s Activities Centre Co-ordinator, Sue Tripney, said by adopting healthy habits as outlined in this program you can improve your health, lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and dementia.

The Mind your Mind program will be held on Friday, 20 July at 10.00am for approximately one and half hours at the Community Health Centre. The session is free of charge and morning tea will be provided.

Sue said regular exercise is important for people of all ages and abilities.

"As part of our healthy lifestyle program for seniors, local fitness instructor from the Rural Fitness Gym, Jerry Germon is offering a three week program called Active Moves for Seniors, free of charge.

"The program is designed to include low to moderate exercise at your own pace.

"Physical activity not only helps with general health, it also helps reduce the risk of falls through improving balance and muscle strength.

"Exercise is essential for overall wellbeing, so come along, be more physically active, learn healthy ways of living life and have some fun," Sue Tripney said.

Active Moves for Seniors will be held at the Community Health Centre on three Friday mornings - 3 August, 10 August and 17 August at 10am. There are only 20 places available for the Active Moves for Seniors so register now, by phoning 6558 1011.