The Stepping On program is a free initiative developed in NSW and is now being offered by the Nyngan Health Service. 

The program includes practical exercises to improve strength and balance and covers a range of topics from, vision and medication management to moving about safely in the community, with sessions facilitated by local specialist health professionals and invited guest speakers. 

Nyngan’s Chris Hughes and his wife attended the Stepping On program last year, and highly recommends it to the community. 

“Last year Nyngan MPS ran a 12 week morning class for people over the age of 65, run by registered nurse Bernadette Holmes,” Mr Hughes said.

“My wife and I attended and found this class very helpful. Concerning short exercises and enjoying the company of 12 other people.

“It was very helpful to be aware of how easy it is to trip over things and to maintain exercise and balance in our day to day things we do. 

“We highly recommend it to the elderly people of the Nyngan community,” he said. 

The next Stepping On program starting on Wednesday, July 25. The group-based sessions run for two hours a week for seven weeks, followed by a refresher session two months later. 

It is available for people aged 65 and over who are living at home and able to walk independently or with a walking stick. 

To be part of this exciting program, contact the Nyngan Health Service on 6835 1700. 

To see other programs running in your local area, visit www.activeandhealthy.nsw.gov.au.