Health district calls on community groups to combat lifestyle-related illness

NORTHERN NSW Local Health District is calling for community support in Ballina to help promote exercise and wellbeing to combat rising rates of lifestyle-related illness as part of its Healthy Living Program.

The initiative provides guidance and support to maintain positive habits, promoting overall wellness and healthy ageing.

The programs are vital to regions like Ballina where there is an ageing population.

Acting director of aboriginal health, oral health and health promotion, Cameron Johnson, said the department is eager to connect with local organisations already working to improve community wellbeing.

“We would like to find out about existing local projects that support people in Ballina with healthy eating and physical activity,” Mr Johnson said.

“By working in partnership with locals and locally based community organisations, we can help keep people healthy and well and out of hospitals.

“We are looking forward to learning about the great initiatives based in Ballina, including those working in partnership with Aboriginal people.

“The community survey will inform how NNSWLHD collaborates with organisations and supports existing activities.”

Recent Healthy Living initiatives in the Northern Rivers have included nutrition programs for parents, fitness and dance classes tailored to older adults, and education campaigns addressing emerging health issues such as vaping.

Research has also shown that socially engaged seniors are more likely to maintain independence, manage chronic conditions more effectively, and enjoy better sleep and mental resilience.

Group classes help reduce feelings of loneliness, and improve overall quality of life with ongoing support.

Community organisations are encouraged to complete an online expression of interest form to share details about their current activities.

The form needs to be submitted by Friday, December 19 and can be filled out at healthupnorth.info/BallinaCommunityPartnershipsSurvey