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Aboriginal health staff at Moree Community Health Centre were approached by community members to develop a program which would support them in their endeavours to live a healthier lifestyle. The first program, trialled in early 2007, consisted of weekly nutrition education sessions. This then developed into alternating exercise classes and nutrition programs. The first aqua aerobic program was developed in 2007, in partnership with NSW Sport and Recreation. The program also developed healthy cooking classes to supplement what participants learnt about nutrition with the dietitian.
The short-term aim of the project was to promote healthy lifestyle options through education and low impact exercise, and to provide participants with the educational tools to sustain a healthy lifestyle in a culturally appropriate manner. The long-term aim of this project was to contribute to a decline in chronic disease and associated risk factors within the community.
An integral part of the program's development and success was attributed to consultations between participants and the dietitian, diabetic educator and AHEOs about future topics and activities.
Abstract adapted from Australian Resource Centre for Healthcare Innovations
Hunter New England Area Health Service
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