Catholic Healthcare’s Falls-prevention Program Launches in New Locations

Catholic Healthcare’s Walking with Confidence program has recently launched in the Greater Western Sydney suburb of Harris Park, and will soon be expanding the program to other parts of New South Wales.

The group program currently being offered in the Harris Park location is Catholic Healthcare’s second group offering of the falls-prevention program. It’s offering to groups came after its success working with people individually from the comfort of their own homes.

The group program enables locals in the area who may not feel confident enough to approach the organisation for one-on-one assistance to gain the help they need, with the comfort of their friends and family around them in a group setting.

Approximately 15 participants are regularly attending the Walking with Confidence program in Harris Park, learning by the guidance of Health and Wellness instructor, Gary Kassab. About 50% of the 15 are recovering from a fall, while other attendees are preparing themselves for a safe and stable future.

Several of the attendees are of Lebanese descent, who find that their weekly attendance of the program not only improves their stride, but their social interaction too.

Two elderly Lebanese ladies, Diba and Therese, participate in the program with the interpretation assistance of their bi-lingual daughter-in-law, who also attends the program.

Since joining the program two weeks ago, the pair are already expanding their friendship with other Arabic-speakers in the group.

“There isn’t a great deal of opportunity for Lebanese people to connect with other people of their own culture in a social group setting – this program is changing that,” says Gary.

The Walking with Confidence program has been equally as successful in the homes of many individuals utilising their home care packages. Two elderly sisters in Bathurst, New South Wales’ Central West are now the poster girls for the Walking with Confidence program, after it gave them the ability to walk independently after just a few months.

“It’s only been two weeks so far,” explains Diba, through the translation of her daughter-in-law, “But we’re all really enjoying it. It’s a great feeling to know we’re improving our independence and social lives.”

To join future programs or for more information, call Catholic Healthcare's friendly staff on 1300 319 011.