Pedometers plan to get older folk walking
The suburban councils of Port Phillip and Stonnington in Melbourne are now allowing residents to borrow pedometers from public libraries in a move to encourage older people to exercise and remain healthy.
As a “how to” aid borrowers will also receive a pedometer resource kit containing information relating to older adults and physical activity as well as information on local walks and recreational opportunities in their respective areas.
The health promotion officer for Caulfield Community Health Service, Jenny Boulet, said that the project titled ‘Out there and active!’ aimed to increase active participation in walking by older people. “The pedometers count how many steps you do in a day and can be a great way to motivate people and help them set goals”, Ms Boulet said.
The walking initiative has been developed by the inner South East Partnership in Community and Health and is supported by the Victorian Department of Planning and Community Development as part of the Seniors ‘Go for your life’ scheme.
