Promoting Lifeball to older Australians

• Published in: Journal of science and medicine in sport 2005-12, Vol.8 (4)
• Main Authors: Green, S, Campbell, L, Harrison, M, Radvan, D, Barnett, L, Patterson, L, Johnson, P, Drage, D, Brown, S, Albany, P
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1440-2440

Appropriate physical activity has been shown to have a protective effect against falls injuries, the leading cause of injury-related hospitalization and death in people aged over 65. The psychological benefits of participation in physical activity groups include improvements in socialization and quality of life. Despite the potential value to older people, there has been limited access to such groups in regional and rural NSW. Lifeball is a team game that can provide people over 50 years with an opportunity for physical activity and socialization. During 2004, health promotion staff from four rural NSW Health service areas, in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs and NSW Health, undertook a project to establish new Lifeball groups in each area to facilitate access to gentle exercise for veterans and the wider community. This presentation will: 1. Describe methods used to establish and promote Lifeball groups. 2. Provide a descriptive profile of people registering to play Lifeball. 3. Present preliminary data from a 12 month evaluation of a cohort of players, examining their continuation with and perceptions of Lifeball, and the potential for other positive outcomes. During 2004 20 groups were established. Preliminary description of a cohort of 285 new players suggests the majority were women (85%), with 22% members of the veteran community. Most were physically active prior to joining Lifeball (84%), mainly through walking and participation in other team/group activities. Falling in the previous year was reported by 29%. The 12 month follow-up of the cohort will be undertaken between March and December 2005.