Growing Older, Living Dangerously (GOLD)
Dorset Council, Tasmania
Background
In 2004, Dorset Council, situated in North Eastern Tasmania, undertook a needs study which highlighted a couple of key issues affecting older residents.
- It is expected that the proportion of the population aged 65 years and over will grow from the current 14% to 15.4% by 2010 and reached 18.6% by 2021.
- Hospital separations showed a higher than state average for musculoskeletal system, connective tissue and circulatory system disorders.
- Rural isolation limits social participation and access to services.
Initiative
Dorset GOLD, inspired by Brisbane City Council's GOLD Program, is a health promotion initiative aimed at addressing risk behaviours such as smoking, nutrition, physical activity and the underlying social determinants of poor health status for older community members.
Dorset GOLD was conducted over a weekend in October 2004. The weekend program was made up of participant nominated activities such as walking and Tai Chi, abseiling, orienteering, cooking workshops, signing and photography. Participants also had the opportunity to share skills and ideas and develop social networks, which increased the potential for participation in ongoing healthy ageing activities.
Funding for the program was provided by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, insurance was covered by the Tasmanian Department of Health and Human Services and the Dorset Council provided in kind-support.
Achievements
The Dorset GOLD weekend was an overall success. A total of 80 residents participated in the weekend with more than half aged between 50 -65.
The weekend format was a positive experience for participants who described the activities as challenging but fun. The result is a strong visual presence with 'Dorset GOLD' T-shirts and hats with "Growing Older, Living Dangerously" slogan being proudly worn around community!
The weekend has increased the community's awareness of positive healthy ageing, assisted in building community capacity by sharing skills and experiences, developing relationships and providing opportunity for inter-generational participation
In November 2005 a follow up questionnaire was distributed to all participants and those who had expressed interest but were unable to attend. Questions were asked about ongoing participation in community activities, any changes in lifestyle since attending GOLD and interest in future GOLD activities. A total of 69 questionnaires were distributed and 55% participants responded largely from the 50-60 year old age group. Responses highlight the following:
- 74% of respondents indicated that they are involved in healthy lifestyle activities either formal or informal
- 56% of respondents indicated that they had made lifestyle changes since attending GOLD
- Overwhelmingly those changes were listed as being increased exercise and improved diet and/or use of healthy recipes provided
- Barriers to change were listed as being time, motivation and transport
- 94% of respondents indicated that an aspect of the weekend had remained with them (eg helpful information, new skills, recipes, new friendships etc)
- 95% of respondents indicated that they would like to be involved in future Dorset GOLD activities
Dorset GOLD has also received national recognition as a best practice initiative with a 2005 National Heart Foundation Award.
Contact for further information
- Elizabeth Mahnken
- Primary Health Care Coordinator
- North East
- NESM Hospital
- Cameron Street, Scottsdale 7260
- Tasmania, Australia
- Ph: 03 6352 5549
- Fax: 03 6352 5537
