Kaumatua Wellbeing Day (2nd April 2009)

"When will the next one be held?” was a common question raised by those who took part in our first ever Kaumatua Wellbeing Day held at Owae Marae on 2nd April. Organised by NPiS in partnership with Mahia Mai A Whai Tara, the event encouraged participants to try out a range of enjoyable physical activities that are linked to falls prevention. Taranaki DHB’s physiotherapy department ran a simple screening check to identify those at risk of falls and provided information about how people could reduce their risk. 

The event was a huge success, attended by over 100 older people and their whanau. The skies were blue and the sun shone all day! The atmosphere in the wharenui was amazing with so many people joining in the music and exercises. Waitara’s ‘Move it or Lose it’ class gained a few extra members, and the Physiotherapy team identified a few people who would benefit from their falls prevention programme. 25 people were screened for the Otago Exercise Programme, 11 of whom were identified as being suitable for the home-based programme. In addition, Sport Taranaki took 10 referrals for the Tai Chi programme. 

NPiS and Mahia Mai A Whaitara would like to thank all of those organisations who took part on the day. Having so many different service providers available to provide information and answer questions is of great benefit to those older people who attended - THANK YOU!