Older adults on the Coast will soon receive extra support to stay active, healthy, and live independently thanks to a partnership between Central Coast Local Health District and Meals on Wheels Central Coast.

The partnership will see more than 750 residential Meals on Wheels Central Coast customers as well as its National Disability Insurance Scheme clients on the Coast receive advice and resources on things like simple exercises to do in the home, how to make the home safe, how to improve strength and balance, and reduce the risk of falls.

The resources, developed by Central Coast Local Health District’s Health Promotion Service, will be delivered to older adults aged 65 and over and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and over at the same time they receive their meals.

Niki Kajons, director of Health Promotion and Population Health Improvement at Central Coast Local Health District, said the partnership can help support a healthy and independent older population on the Coast.

“We are so pleased to be able to offer free resources to our older population through this partnership with Meals on Wheels Central Coast,” Niki said.

“Staying active as we grow older is so important. It helps prevent our muscles getting weaker and improves balance to reduce our risk of trips and falls. It’s also great for our mental health too.

“The resources will arm Meals on Wheels customers with practical advice as well as signpost further support that can help them stay as active and healthy as possible.”

Meals on Wheels Central Coast is a non-profit organisation that provides a convenient meal delivery and social support service to members of the Central Coast community. It caters to elderly and frail people as well younger people with a disability and their carers living at home.

Dennis Taylor, chief executive officer of Meals on Wheels Central Coast, welcomed the partnership.

“The health and wellbeing of our clients is of paramount importance to us, and we are grateful for the support of Central Coast Local Health District.

“The information provided by them will assist our clients to stay healthy and independent in their own homes for longer.”

For more information on resources to support older adults, contact the Central Coast Health Promotion Service on 4320 9700.