10 January 2007
Knox seniors have a unique opportunity to be part of a world-first study investigating the impact of exercise on older people.
The internationally significant study, by the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC), will investigate how exercise can maintain independence as people grow older.
MUARC researchers are looking for people over 70 who live in the Knox area to take part in exercise classes at the Knox Retirement Village (Burwood Highway, opposite Knox City Shopping Centre) starting in early February, for 6 months.
The project leader, Dr Lesley Day, said the study, funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council, addressed the important issue of maintaining independence among Australia's ageing population.
"This will be the first study in the world to test the impact of any exercise program in maintaining independence and delaying the onset or progression of disability among older people," she said.
"Strong evidence that exercise can in fact delay disability will have immediate and significant implications for the maintenance of independence among older people."
Dr Day said increased independence among seniors would lower demand for support services and for places in supported accommodation reducing demand for limited resources.
"And more importantly, older people will have improved quality of life", she said.
In the study, the researchers measure a range of health indicators and take the medical history of participants, who then take part in either a tai chi-based or gentle stretching/flexibility exercise program at the subsidised cost of $3 per class. Changes in participants' physical health and well-being are monitored throughout the program through a series of assessments.
"We have a number of men and women who have already signed on for the program, and we still have places available," Dr Day said.
Those interested in finding out more about the study should contact Ms Melinda Congiu on +61 3 9905 5809 or email melinda.congiu@muarc.monash.edu.au.
Dr Lesley Day is available for media interviews on +61 3 9905 1811. For further information or to organise a photograph of Dr Day or program participants please contact John Watts at Monash Media Office on +61 3 9905 9201 or 0448 574 148.
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