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Active ageing in the outdoors for older people: working together for a healthier world

Creating inclusive and accessible outdoor environments that encourage and provide opportunities for older adults to engage in physical activity and social interaction is important for healthy ageing.

The National Ageing Research Institute in partnership with several local governments, government bodies and stakeholders have been working together to create age-friendly outdoor spaces for older people to engage in physical and social activities for healthier and liveable cities and communities in Victoria.

The design of outdoor public spaces, including parks, leisure spaces and outdoor exercise equipment should be inclusive of all ages and abilities. We have provided some practical recommendations and suggestions for the design of age friendly outdoor spaces.

Further insights and strategies for creating inclusive, age-friendly multigenerational recreational spaces, including key design features, safety, and usability considerations, are also available here. Additionally, you can read more about Australia’s first dedicated outdoor rehabilitation space in a hospital setting.

For further details please contact the project leader Professor Pazit Levinger.

Balance beam (wavy and flat beam)

These instructional resources and videos are for your general information only. Please consult with your healthcare provider if you have, or suspect you have, a health problem or health risk factors. Please be advised the use of the exercises, videos, advice, and information in this resource is at your own risk.

Icon of person using exercise equipment - flat and wavy balance beams When starting to exercise, begin with the easiest level.

Aim

This exercise improves your balance for walking safely on awkward surfaces, such as uneven paths.

Tips

Gradually reduce the use of hand support, as able.
Rest as often as you need.
No walking backwards on balance beam.

Instructions

Level 1

Walk along the beam at your normal walking speed, using your hands for support as needed.

Level 2

Walk heel-to-toe along the beam, using one hand for support.

Level 3

Walk on your toes along the beam, using one hand for support.

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Pinyi is a Research Assistant with a Bachelor of Biomedicine from the University of Melbourne, majoring in Human Structure and Function. She is interested in healthy ageing, dementia research, and culturally inclusive healthcare, with experience in healthcare administration, volunteering, and participant support.
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