Department of Health’s physical wellness promo for Alex
ALEXANDRA – Frail and elderly brace for physical health promo.
Alex’s aged and frail residents will benefit from a health promotions campaign by the Gauteng Metro districts in the Provincial Department of Health.
A physiotherapist from the Alex Health Care Centre who was on a preparatory visit to Itlhokomeleng Old Age Home said the event is planned for 11 September.
The fact-finding team with physiotherapy students from Wits University acquainted itself with the condition of the home and gave them a better understanding of other health facilities in the area for when they conduct the campaign. “The day will be part of the Physiotherapy Week when we will promote the importance of physical activity as part of the healing process. “Many among the elderly are generally frail, others ailing and sometimes fall from beds.
“Physical activities will improve their well-being and independence,” said Daniella Malabone.
The occasion will involve training activities for the staff at the home and surrounding clinics on appropriate and safe methods of lifting and transferring the patients, back-care and other support needed by caregivers in the course of their duty.
Adrian Kusambiza said the campaign will also help to strengthen and minimise risks of patients falling from beds and encourage that appropriate support is availed through side railing which should be in proper working condition all the time. “The beds are also designed to be lowered and raised for the convenience of both patients and medical practitioners assisting them.”
Volunteer nurse Priscilla Chauke commended the visit and planned an event. “Their contributions will be invaluable as we are not well resourced and have no resident doctors to help on frequent emergencies with the elderly who we have to transport to health facilities.”
She expects the campaign to leave them better equipped to up the quality of their services.
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