COTA NSW’s’ Living Longer Living Stronger’ programs

by LukeAdmin

In light of the upcoming April Falls campaign we have spoken to COTA NSW about their involvement in building a network of community based strength and balance program across the state, but with special interest in what is happening, right here on the Central Coast.

Most of us know we should exercise more, and as we get older this is increasingly important. Any exercise helps, but what helps most is exercise that improves your strength and balance.

By building your strength and improving your balance through progressive training, you reduce the risk of falls that can have long–term effects on your health and mobility. You maintain your independence and increase your ability to perform everyday tasks like carrying shopping, gardening, and playing with your grandchildren. Strength and balance training can also help manage conditions like osteoporosis, arthritis, and diabetes.

COTA (Council on the Ageing) NSW’s LLLS program makes strength and balance training very easy. You have an initial consultation to develop an individual program which takes your specific needs into account. Then you attend classes in your local gym, physio, or community centre, with other people of similar age and a variety of fitness levels.

On the Coast Over 55 magazine spoke to Ken, a long–time member of one of the LLLS classes on the Central Coast and asked for his views on the program.

“I was introduced to the LLLS program by a COTA committee member, who advised me that this program had been launched to specifically benefit older Australians like myself.

I hadn’t been involved in any group based exercise class for about 40 years, but getting involved in the LLLS program quickly reminded me of the positive influence that exercise has on our wellbeing, and health, not just physically but mentally throughout our entire life.

After suffering a trip and fall accident a few years ago, I was brought to drastic realisation that my balance wasn’t as good as it should be. The exercise regime at LLLS focuses on those areas of mobility and balance which deteriorate as we age.  Since attending the classes, I have more confidence in my ability to engage in activities that I would not have contemplated prior to commencing the program.

The University of Tasmania’s Wicking Centre for Dementia state that two of the important pillars for preventing the onset of dementia is exercise and social engagement. The LLLS program addresses both of these factors which significantly contribute to maintaining a good quality of life as we age.

What I really enjoy about the classes is that the atmosphere is congenial and non–competitive. All participants have the same goal of keeping mobile and delaying the onset of those aliments associated with aging.

The point of difference with LLLS program is that the exercise programs are tailored to each individual’s needs and pace. Although they are conducted in a class environment, the instructor carefully monitors and advises each participant so that they benefit as though it was a one–on–one session.”

The classes are very affordable – a maximum of $15 per class (assessment extra). All the accredited Living Longer Living Stronger instructors have received training in working with older people and make a special effort to make sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable, even if they are not used to exercising. The classes can become quite a social occasion!

Ken attends Mai’s classes. Mai run the program at four sites across the Coast and two other providers also deliver Living Longer Living Stronger on the Coast with another provider due to follow soon. Check out details to all the LLLS providers on the Central Coast at www.cotansw.com.au/programs/living-longer-living-stronger/classes/class-locations/#CentralCoast

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