Be active – find your why
To meet the evolving needs of older adults, the City of Salisbury's Community Health and Wellbeing Division launched the 'Be Active – Find Your Why' project, focused on active ageing.
Originating from data collected as part of a community survey, and requests from older adults in the community to encourage a variety of activities for their age group, the project sought to inspire residents to get up and move more.
The initiative, led by Jenna Romaine, Jim Binder, and Arlene Jasper from the City of Salisbury, started with the design of eight motivational postcards sharing inspiring stories from local champions, and ways to stay active.
These became a means to promote Be Active – Find Your Why, while roadshows and a wellness expo showed what physical activity could look like for older adults. During events, seniors could participate in hands-on experiences like outdoor gym sessions, beginner bike riding, balance workshops, and contemporary dance.
Key partners, including the Heart Foundation, University of South Australia, GP clinics, allied health professionals and local government networks played a vital role in the success of Be Active – Find Your Why. A milestone in collaboration was securing a $10,000 grant from Heart Foundation, which helped create resources to support the project.
The project's impact empowered older adults in City of Salisbury, fostering a sense of community and improving overall wellbeing. Valuable learnings prompted changes in recruitment and promotion strategies, with success found in avenues like shopping centres and community facilities.
Key resources, including a dedicated web page and physical community assets such as senior centres, walking trails and outdoor gyms were instrumental to see change.
The City of Salisbury plan to continue the postcard series, maintain information online, host an annual wellness expo, and keep running ‘Have a Go’ sessions to encourage increased movement at all levels.
Gillian, an attendee of the wellness expo, captured the sentiment which has been shared throughout the project, saying: "A wonderful day with lots of fun and great information on how to find your why, which is all about recognising how you can get active with an activity to suit you."
Find out more
City of Salisbury
Phone: (08) 8406 8222
Email: city@salisbury.sa.gov.au