Lively interest in Triple A exercise programme
LIVING at Ernest Rutherford Retirement Village provides residents with an advantage many elderly people do not experience.
This advantage is brought to them by group exercise instructor Leigh Dalzell who leads the Ryman Healthcare Triple A (ageless, active and aware) exercise programme at Ernest Rutherford Retirement Village. The programme is considered highly beneficial in maintaining flexibility, strength, balance, mobility and preventing falls among older people.
The Triple A programme, de- signed about 11 years ago exclusively for Ryman residents, caters for different levels of mobility, from those less able to those who are fully mobile.
‘‘I’m passionate about what I do and I’m fortunate enough to work with fabulous people. Exercise of this kind brings new perspective to movement, helps with memory and enjoyment of life,’’ Dalzell says.
‘‘Music is a powerful motivator and regular, appropriate exercise to music can banish low mood and improve general wellbeing.
‘‘Group activities – exercise or social – are crucial to maintaining social connections without which many people suffer loneliness and poor health.’’
Triple A has received ACC ‘‘Live Stronger for Longer’’ accreditation in recognition of its value in preventing falls.
‘‘From all the feedback we get, people love Triple A. They participate fully and many say it is the highlight of their week,’’ she says.
Social interaction, staying strong, being able to stretch, improving balance and having a few laughs are why Triple A continues to be a successful exercise programme for the residents.