Enhancing the health and wellbeing of seniors across Brisbane is the aim of an upcoming innovative pilot study by Jubilee Community Care.

Jubilee has partnered with universities and small businesses to create the Stay Connected Project which starts in February 2020.

Participants are being sought for the project which will incorporate free activity and information programs on cooking and nutrition, exercise, mindfulness and driver awareness training.

The Stay Connected pilot study is being funded by the Federal Government’s Department of Health. Its activities include:

◊ Cooking for One or Two – Presented by Food Solutions: Dieticians will provide lessons in basic cooking, nutrition and healthy ageing in a positive social environment. There will be nutritious cooking demonstrations and you get to share meals with participants.  Once a week for 6 weeks.

◊ Body Moves – Presented by BodyTrack Exercise Physiology: Get moving under the expert guidance of an exercise physiologist. This program targets functional strength, falls prevention and social interaction, which helps to maintain independence and improve quality of life. The eight-week program includes an initial assessment and one 30-minute session each week. Participants require clearance from their doctor to take part.

◊ Mindful Connections: Develop life skills for meaningful relationships and wellbeing – Presented by Conscious Beginnings: This training and coaching aims to empower and support older people to reduce their isolation and improve their wellbeing, resilience, mental health and self-care. Scientific studies suggest that mindfulness can ease physical and psychological issues that the elderly experience. The program will run once a week for eight weeks. Participants will need a letter from their doctor to participate. They also will need access to the internet but only basic computer knowledge is required.

◊ SAFER Driver Situation Awareness Training – Presented by University of the Sunshine Coast: This program will provide participants with classroom and online training to help drivers identify and skilfully react to potential road hazards. This includes an online program over three months so access to the internet is needed however only basic computer knowledge is required.

The University of Queensland’s Institute for Social Science Research will gather data, evaluate and publish the findings of the benefits of older people attending the innovative activities contained in the Stay Connected Project.

The project’s programs will start in February and continue through to June. They will be held at various venues in Brisbane. Places are limited so please register your interest as soon as possible. All programs are open to seniors with good general health and who are socially active. Participants can register for one or multiple programs.

For more information please phone Jubilee Community Care on 3871 3220 or email events@jccagedcare.org.au