Displaying their tai chi moves at the Octagon Club in
Dunedin are (from left) Deirdre Pillai, Glen Munn, Adrienne
Miller and Carol Adler-Morgan. Photo by Gregor Richardson.
Is standing on one leg a challenge? How about walking
backwards? If so, you're not alone.
As we age, our balance, strength and co-ordination suffer,
increasing the chances of having a serious fall.
But this isn't inevitable.
Age Concern Otago is working to help people aged over 65
avoid falls by providing Steady As You Go and tai chi classes
throughout the region.
Steady As You Go co-ordinator Margaret Dando says the classes
use gentle exercises that improve strength and balance.
The 45-minute class starts with a warm-up sitting in a chair,
then standing exercises such as standing on one leg (using
the chair for extra balance) and walking exercises, such as
marching, side-steps or walking backwards.
The class ends with a warm-down, again in a chair.
Some participants use leg weights to increase the resistance
of the exercises, but everyone needs a medical certificate
before attending.
Ms Dando says as well as being physically good for people the
classes also have social benefits, which are just as
important.
"As people get older they sit a bit more, become less fit and
less strong. The classes are easily available in the
community and you get to know people. They become like a
community. They look after each other," she says.
"Over the years the numbers [of classes] have built. There
are 28 around Dunedin and Mosgiel, and four around Otago."
To start up a new Steady As You Go exercise group, Age
Concern runs a 10-week class - usually in a community hall -
and after that time asks for a volunteer to continue the
classes.
"Some classes have three people trained so they can take
turns or if one goes on holiday," Ms Dando says.
The tai chi classes are also popular, with 20 in Dunedin and
four around Otago.
These classes are slightly harder as they last an hour and
participants are on their feet the whole class.
"There's also more co-ordination and, over time, the memory
of a sequence. It's quite a challenge," she says.
But not impossible. Some members have had joints replaced,
while others need to. Ages range from 65 to being in their
90s and most people pick it up quickly.
Participants say the classes move slowly and have plenty of
repetition. They can feel an improvement quickly in their
balance, co-ordination and concentration, and gain a sense of
achievement.
"Once you get them into the habit correctly, there's no
problem," says Ms Dando.
The tai chi classes are suitable for most people but if they
are on four or more medications they will need medical
clearance.
• To find your nearest exercise or tai chi class or to
inquire about starting one, contact Margaret Dando on (03)
477-1040, extn 702.
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