In a pioneering move to address the growing needs of an aging population, the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) launched the Early Intervention Exercise Programs in 2022. With classes held across 3 areas within the region (Central Coast, Hunter, New England), the initiative aims to reduce healthcare costs by keeping older residents living in their homes independently for longer.
As the global population of people aged 60 and older is set to double by 2050, reaching 2.1 billion, the pressure on healthcare systems to support this demographic is intensifying (World Health Organization, 2024). In the Hunter New England and Central Coast regions, nearly 95% of older adults have at least one chronic condition, and nearly 80% live with two or more (Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network, 2022, p. 2). Additionally, falls remain the leading cause of injury-related fatalities in older adults, further driving the need for preventative health measures.
The Early Intervention Exercise Programs focus on a range of benefits for older participants, including improved mental health, enhanced physical function, and chronic disease prevention. Regular exercise can lower the risk of conditions like heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. It also helps to improve bone health, balance, and coordination, significantly reducing the risk of falls and injuries (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d.).
The program’s positive impacts are already visible. The Active Stronger Better (ASB) program has seen a remarkable expansion, from 33 classes per week to 90, thanks to funding and support from the PHN. Participants in the Rural Fit program, specifically designed for rural areas, have already gained an impressive 115 healthier life years, and over 500 people have accessed the early intervention program.
The results of the program go beyond just physical health improvements. Participants often report feeling stronger both physically and mentally, with some sharing their experiences in their own words:
“Exercise helps me be stronger physically and mentally. You’ve got to be healthy for your family and friends—that’s the number one priority,” said one ASB participant. “It’s a great class—when you come out of there, you smile!”
Another Rural Fit participant echoed similar sentiments, saying, “It’s not just the exercise, it’s the social side of it. It allows us to keep up with the grandkids.”
In rural areas, where access to health services can be limited, programs like Rural Fit are crucial in keeping older individuals motivated and active. “It’s important to start and become active. You get a lot more flexibility back, and it keeps us motivated,” said one participant.
HNECC PHN’s Early Intervention Exercise Program not only helps older adults live healthier, more independent lives but also offers a significant economic impact. Inactivity among adults aged 60 and older costs the healthcare system over $253 billion annually (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2021). By keeping older individuals active, the program aims to reduce this financial burden, promoting long-term savings and better outcomes for participants.
With life expectancy steadily increasing—on average, a 65-year-old can expect to live another 18.9 years—ensuring these additional years are filled with health and vitality is key to reducing strain on the region’s healthcare systems (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2024). The Early Intervention Exercise Programs are one of many steps HNECC PHN is taking to meet the needs of this growing demographic and improve their overall well-being.
As one participant put it: “If you’re thinking about it, you need to come off that chair and join us.”
