Wellness Centre in the Spotlight

Aged care provider Southern Cross Care (Vic) opened the doors of its Wellness Centre in Eaglemont to the local community on 19 June 2015 as part of the Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA)’s National Open Day to promote the positive experience of ageing.

The day kicked off with afternoon tea followed by a comprehensive information session by a physiotherapist and allied health professional.

In keeping with the theme of the day, guests also took part in a Tai Chi exercise class, giving everyone the opportunity to experience this gentle martial art. 

“Today’s Open Day has been a huge success for the Southern Cross Care Wellness Centre. It’s fantastic to see so many people here who are interested in learning more about our exercise programs and the benefits to their health and overall wellbeing,” said Gavan Leonard, Regional Manager, Southern Cross Care Northern Region Community Services.

“The Wellness Centre aims to maximise quality of life for people over the age of 65 years by maintaining their independence, increasing fitness, improving confidence and preventing social isolation,” he said.

The Wellness Centre conducts personalised and social programs which include Tai Chi to improve balance and concentration through gentle mind and body exercise; strength and balance to gain muscle tone; stability and coordination through personalised gym-based exercise; and a walking group to improve cardiovascular endurance and confidence in walking outside.

For people with complex health care needs, individual physiotherapy sessions are also available. Classes at the Wellness Centre are offered to older people living independently or in Commonwealth-funded aged care homes in Melbourne’s northern or eastern suburbs.

Contact Southern Cross Care (Vic) to find out more about the Wellness Centre. 

Guests attending the Open Day participate in Tai Chi exercise.

Physiotherapist, Alyssa Borja, showing some simple exercises to Carmelo Minutoni (centre) and Les Jones (right)