Travel tips for seniors

A recent article in a Healthbeat (19 July, 2011) a well-know publication, that highlighted the connection between physical activity and cognition engagement prompted me to share news about a grassroots travel project for seniors from South Asian backgrounds (people from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka or those who have shared social and cultural connections).

As we get older, our short-term memory and ability to process new information tends to decline. This state is not to be confused with dementia, where “memory and other cognitive areas deteriorate to the point that everyday tasks and decisions become difficult, and sometimes impossible”. As yet there are no interventions, pills, potions or so-called cures to avoid or reduce the chances of getting dementia.

The good news, according to the article – and some passionate community development workers – is that there is a link between physical activity and cognitive “engagement”. So to stay on top of your health, it is recommended that as we get older, we follow these simple rules.

Stop smoking

Smokers are more likely to exhibit cognitive decline that non-smokers.

Challenge the mind

Brain cells need a steady diet of oxygen, therefore mental activity such as reading, board games, socialising, computer games or any new skill are necessary. Remember, you are never too old to learn new things.

Get rest

Too little sleep can affect the memory, so sleep well.

Watch your weight: Know your normal weight range and stay within it to avoid a risk to illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension and stroke, which can compromise the brain.

Check with the doctor

Concerned about your health? Discuss issues with your doctor, as it is about you and your health.

SEVA, a not-for-profit organisation has come up with an innovative solution to help South Asian seniors keep their minds and bodies healthy.

‘Transport … key to moving’ is a travel training program where a volunteer (trainer) will meet a senior (trainee) at his/her home or central location and guide the Trainee through four different journeys to explore Sydney. The senior will be accompanied by a volunteer on all four trips as well as guided to use Sydney’s public transport, which includes learning about exits, where to board, who to ask for help, lifts, types of tickets, read the timetable, etc.

The programme is open to permanent and non-resident seniors and will cover relevant information like fare options (full, off peak, concession, all day, etc), as well as ways to connect with government-funded services when they are eligible.

The training is open to all senior individuals over 60 years, including couples and small groups; and in fact SEVA encourages seniors to tell their friends and form small groups. If you have a mobility issue, SEVA volunteers can help in clarifying if you are eligible for the service. People in wheelchairs are welcome too, however they would need to be accompanied by a family member.

And to save the best for last, the programme is free and at absolutely no cost to the senior or their family. It also includes light refreshments.

All South Asian seniors particularly those who are in Sydney as long-term visitors or on temporary or bridging visas are welcome to attend. Trainees who have already joined the programme stated that they wanted to gain confidence to use Sydney’s public transport. This would help them get about during the week, instead of waiting for their family to take them out on the weekend or take a day off from work.

The benefits of travel training align well with the benefits of physical activity and cognition maintenance as it helps with increased connections with people, reducing blood pressure and heart disease and finally, improving health and wellbeing by reducing stress, anxiety and feelings of isolation.

For more details, please contact SEVA volunteer Caroline on 0402 596 813 or email: sydromeo@ tpg.com.au, to participate in this project which must end on 31 October 2011. Visit www. sevainternational.org for more details about the organisation.

Caroline Romeo