Healthy Ageing

The Global Goals

For Sustainable Development

Stay Active, Stay Connected: New Healthy Ageing Programs

Healthy Cities Australia, in partnership with Charles Sturt University, is excited to introduce two innovative programs designed to support healthy ageing in our communities. Funded by COORDINARE, South Eastern NSW Primary Health Network, these programs will be piloted in Nowra, Goulburn and Queanbeyan.

Participants can choose from one of two programs — Wellness2Age (W2Age) or Walk 2 Connect — each offering practical and enjoyable ways to support wellbeing, independence and social connection. Unfortunately, people cannot participate in both programs at the same time.

Get involved! 
If you or someone you know would benefit from staying active, connected and independent, we encourage you to join one of these programs. 

For more information contact Samantha Karmel at HCA on samantha@healthycites.org.au or ring 0493 425 609. 

Wellness 2 Age

Overview

W2Age is a strengths-based, 10-week group program facilitated by trained health professionals. It is designed to support older adults to maintain independence, enhance wellbeing, and age well within their community. The program focuses on multiple aspects of ageing, including physical health, social connection, and practical everyday skills. It adopts a proactive approach, encouraging participants to build sustainable habits that support healthy ageing at home and in daily life.

Aim and Objectives

• Support older adults to remain independent at home for longer
• Promote physical, mental, and social wellbeing
• Build participants’ confidence in managing their own health and lifestyle
• Encourage positive, strengths-based approaches to ageing
• Provide opportunities for social engagement and peer support
• Develop sustainable strategies that can be integrated into everyday life

Objectives

Key objectives include:

• Provide a safe, friendly and accessible opportunity to be active.
• Build healthy walking habits to increase individual fitness and mobility
• Support participants to reduce their risk of chronic disease
• Support good mental health
• Build community connections at individual and organisational levels
• Reduce social isolation

What’s involved

• Facilitated group sessions focused on healthy ageing
• Activities addressing mobility, strength, balance, and general wellbeing
• Education on maintaining independence and preventing decline
• Opportunities for social connection and shared learning
• Individualised support within a group environment
• Practical strategies that participants can continue at home

Walk 2 Connect

Overview

Walk 2 Connect is a 10 week community-based walking program that combines physical activity with social engagement to improve overall wellbeing. It encourages participants to increase their physical activity through structured walking while building meaningful social connections. The program supports both physical health and community connectedness, particularly for older adults or those at risk of social isolation.

Aim and Objectives

• Increase participants’ physical activity levels through accessible walking programs
• Improve mobility, strength, and overall health
• Reduce social isolation and promote community connection
• Build confidence in engaging in regular physical activity
• Encourage long-term participation in active lifestyles
• Support mental wellbeing through social interaction and outdoor activity

What’s involved

• Regular led group walks in community settings
• Safe, inclusive walking activities suitable for varying fitness levels
• Opportunities for social interaction before, during, and after walks
• Encouragement and support to build confidence and routine
• A welcoming, group environment that fosters connection and belonging