A new partnership is helping older adult mental health consumers in the Bayside catchment through expanded group-based exercise and nutrition programs.
The Metro South Older Adult Liaison Team has joined forces with colleagues in Allied Health and Chronic Disease Teams to share Redland Hospital’s Chronic Disease Gym space.
This collaboration is creating greater opportunities for older adults to participate in programs designed to improve both physical and nutritional health outcomes.
The initiative reflects a growing focus on person-centred care, recognising that physical wellbeing, mental health and social connection are all intertwined.
By broadening access to these group programs, the team is also helping consumers build a stronger sense of belonging within their community.
“The Older Adult Liaison team group interventions have seen positive outcomes in consumer physical and mental health as well as social connection,” said Multimorbidity Quality Improvement Strategy Project Officer Brooke Warner-Lee.
“Ensuring a truly comprehensive approach to addressing multimorbidity, the service has extended the group program to include Occupational Therapy modules and an upcoming Psychiatry Registrar Q&A session on medications.”
Consumer feedback has highlighted the tangible impact of the program, with participants reporting they feel more energised and happier after the weekly exercise sessions.
The practical nutrition education has also translated into meaningful changes at home.
Participants shared they had begun applying strategies from the program in their own kitchens, and described gaining a better understanding of how to balance convenience, health and affordability when preparing meals.
Highlighting the success of the initiative is also timely during April No Falls Month, which is an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of falls and to promote the latest best practice falls prevention strategies.
A big shout-out to our Older Adults team within Addiction and Mental Health Services for all that you do every day!