At 91 years, Golden Oaks resident Joy has enviable mobility for a woman of her age.
Perhaps it is her grandchildren and many great grandchildren who keep her young at heart during their boisterous visits - the enjoyment they bring her is clear.
Like other residents who live at Bendigo Health’s Golden Oaks nursing home, Joy will benefit from outdoor activity spaces.
It’s residents like Joy who will reap the benefits of this year’s Bendigo Health Christmas Appeal.
The goal is to raise funds for outdoor exercise equipment that will improve the health and wellbeing of residents in Bendigo Health’s aged care facilities.
Funds raised will provide inclusive and accessible outdoor environments that encourage and provide opportunities for older adults to engage in physical activity and social interaction.
“The equipment will offer a different way to exercise this will create new experiences and memories of old experiences - playing on a play ground as a child/watching their kids/grandkids on the play equipment,” Golden Oaks Complex Director of Nursing Ruth Ward said.
“The benefits of exercise are well researched – it improves muscle mass, cardiovascular health, our immune system and mental health.
“If we can offer a more diverse exercise program utilising the parks equipment, more residents will engage in increased activity levels. This supports improved physical function, reduced risk and fear of falls, better sleep and self-rated quality of life.”
The spaces will not just be a place for exercise, but allow intergenerational play for residents and their younger family members.
"What a joy an exercise park would bring as it increases wellbeing while decreasing depressive symptom and loneliness through play and activity," Ruth said.
"Consider donating to this meaningful cause, your contribution could enrich someone’s life."
To donate or learn more, please visit: www.bendigohealth.org.au/christmas