VICTORIA University wants seniors to take a deep breath of fresh air.
Researchers are studying the benefits of specially-designed exercise parks for older people.
A trial park installed at Villa Maria Catholic Homes’ St Bernadette aged care facility saw residents regularly perform calf raises, step-ups and more over an 18-week period to improve their strength, flexibility and balance.
Exercise physiologist Myrla Sales said participants experienced significant improvement over the three areas.
“We also concluded that using the park helps reduce the physiological risk of falling,” she said.
Other benefits include being out in the fresh air, being social and doing something enjoyable.
The techniques used were designed to keep participants active, happy and able to cope easily with daily demands such as chores, shopping and gardening.
