Hydrotherapy gets residents’ ‘toes wet’
There’s no stopping a group of Queensland’s Orana Lutheran Complex retirees from getting their toes wet by delving into deep waters in the pursuit of movement, mobility and strength. Hydrotherapy involves using water to help improve physical movement and function.
There’s no stopping a group of Queensland’s Orana Lutheran Complex retirees from getting their toes wet by delving into deep waters in the pursuit of movement, mobility and strength.
Hydrotherapy involves using water to help improve physical movement and function. It is also used to treat diseases such as arthritis. Some of the benefits of hydrotherapy include relieving pain and muscle spasms, increasing flexibility, strength and tolerance through exercise.
Kingaroy’s fitness instructor, Layla Gordon, has felt “privileged “to instruct the group since February.
“I love working with the older people because it is challenging and there’s a spark in their eye,” Ms Gordon says. “One lady initially felt scared but regardless she got in every week,” she adds.
“The water makes it achievable for the older people to exercise because the water carries their body weight so it is not as laborious and creates resistance.”
Ms Gordon conducts the half hour sessions at the local aquatic centre, assisting the women in their workout.
“We start with things like squats which they can mimic outside of the water to help with tasks like getting out of a chair that are essential to their everyday lives,” she says.
Living up to Ms Gordon’s motto, ‘if you don’t use it you lose it’, Orana resident, Grace Singleton, 93, (pictured), always lived beside the water but was fearful of learning to swim.
“I felt scared (of getting in) but it was something to do and I thought I would try it after all,” she bravely admits.
“It turned out good and I hung onto the railing. I have been in twice now and I am beginning to feel more confident so I will try it again.”
Orana Lutheran Complex general manager, Richard Fahy, says exercise helps residents maintain good health and quality of life.
“The role of exercise and nutrition is paramount to assisting older Queenslanders to maintain their independence and good health as they age,” he says.
For more information visit www.lccqld.org.au
