Competition and community inspires movement

The human body was designed to move. Any exercise, however small, helps us feel and think better. And that’s especially important as we age, when our activity levels may reduce. Our games room at Kanwal Gardens Care Community is filled with light, laughter and all the banter you’d expect wherever a pool table is involved. Left-handed maintenance officer Brad lines up a shot, and resident Steve quips “Good luck mate, it’s a right-handed table!”

Twice a month, residents, team, and TAFE students completing their Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) gather at Kanwal Gardens for games of Kelly pool, where everyone picks a number and aims to sink that ball. The game moves fast, and everyone has a go.

For resident Ron, it’s a continuation of a sport that’s brought great meaning to his life. Ron skirts the table briskly, mind already on his next shot – which makes sense when you learn he played snooker every day for 19 years at Toukley RSL Club, picking up two club premiership titles. For others, it may be the first time they’ve picked up a cue. One resident takes a shot and misses, to supportive calls of “Don’t worry, that was just practice!”

And that’s exactly the point.

Every movement counts

Improved strength, balance, heart health, and lower blood pressure are just a few benefits of exercise. There’s also the all-important social element, and the connection to community we enjoy from team sport, or something as simple as a walk with friends.

“I love seeing everyone get involved,” says TAFE student Evy. The sense of community and celebration of each other is really special.”

“It’s such a great activity for everyone,” adds student Sarah. “I’ve also seen how the social element is especially important for those who come along but can’t participate for physical reasons.”

Practice makes us better

Older people have a higher risk of chronic disease and social isolation, so the need for physical activity increases. And the more we practice, the better we get.

“Every movement we make improves our mobility,” says Kanwal Gardens’ HCA physiotherapist Akash. “Regular exercises and physical activities like our games of pool can be particularly beneficial in promoting flexibility, mobility, balance and overall quality of life.”

Games like pool are ideal because they’re designed to bring people together, and involve fine motor skills that challenge the body and mind. One example is the dexterity needed to place the cue atop the cross-shaped stick known as the ‘jigger’, for shots that can’t be easily reached.

“Exercises that focus on balance and strength training can reduce the risk of falling,” says Akash.

“We see remarkable improvement in the balance and strength of our residents who exercise regularly. One resident, who needed a lifter to get on the bus, now climbs the stairs onto the bus easily, after following a personalised exercise program.”

With success stories like this, it’s little wonder our residents love their fortnightly games of pool. And along with the wit, there’s also wisdom. Resident Cheryl ponders her next move.

“It’s a hard shot,” she says.

“Sometimes in life you have to take the hard shots,” says wellbeing manager Leonnie. Cheryl gives a wry smile of agreement, lines up her cue, and takes the shot.