Heart Foundation's Walk Wise program to get older Aussies moving

04 November 2019

Nearly three-quarters of Australian seniors - almost 2.9 million - are not getting enough exercise.

Only 27 per cent of Australians over 65 meet the recommended 30 minutes activity per day, according to government figures.

So in a bid to get more Aussies aged 65 and over moving, the National Heart Foundation has launched a new walking initiative.

The Walk Wise program has been developed off the back of a $1 million government grant from the Sport Australia - Move It AUS Better Ageing program.

This aims to boost physical activity rates among older Australians through walking, either independently or as part of a group.

The program will be rolled out over two years and advocate for walk-friendly streets and communities as well as educating older Australians about the benefits of physical activity.

The $1 million grant was part of $22.9 million Move It AUS Better Ageing grants handed out to organisations across the country by Sport Australia.

Sport Australia chief executive Kate Palmer said: "We know there's a number of Australians who can benefit from the Better Ageing program, but can see from research there's a large number who are missing out due to barriers such as perceptions of ability and understanding what is available to them.

"While it's important to keep active with daily activities, we're encouraging elderly Australians to understand the ongoing physical and mental benefits of regular group activity, given the added social benefits.

Heart Foundation Walk Wise program video

For more info on Sport Australia’s - Move It AUS grants, visit: https://www.sportaus.gov.au/grants_and_funding/move-it-aus-grants/