#1856_SESLHD_Health Promotion_YIR 21-22_4A_WEB

Case study: Older Persons Mental Health Service

Since 2016, HPS have worked in partnership with clinicians at the Older Persons Mental Health Service (OPMHS), Prince of Wales Hospital to provide Stepping On programs for their patients. Mary, a consumer of the OPMHS, noticed since the COVID-19 stay at home orders that her legs felt ‘wobbly’ and she lost her confidence. Mary was fearful about using public transport and going to a shopping centre on her own again. The Occupational Therapist at OPMHS suggested she attend a Falls Prevention group called Stepping On for Recovery. Mary was initially apprehensive about attending a group but attended every session and said it was the highlight of her week . She enjoyed doing the exercises and her legs feel stronger . When attending the group, Mary felt supported and acknowledged . Mary also liked seeing the same faces each week and felt comfortable with other group members. Mary now says she is so much more aware of the complex obstacles presented to pedestrians and feels far more knowledgeable and confident when leaving the house and going out and about in the community.

Creating healthier communities

Aboriginal community HPS continues to partner with the Aboriginal Health Unit and SESLHD Aboriginal programs and staff to empower and support our Aboriginal community to live a healthier life. Key partnership activities: Supported the Integrated Care Unit, in conjunction with The Clontarf Foundation to deliver free health checks for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from local high schools. Collaborated with Bulbuwil Aboriginal Lifestyle Support Program to host a yarning circle to consult Aboriginal students in local high schools about their health needs. Raised awareness about the environmental impacts of tobacco to help motivate Aboriginal community members to quit. You can watch some of the pledges from our community members here. Supported the opening of the Dharawal Aboriginal Carers Lounge at The Sutherland Hospital. The carers lounge provides a culturally safe space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients and families to enjoy a cup of tea, a yarn about a patient’s care, or rest while a loved one is receiving care.

8

SESLHD Health Promotion Service – Snapshot 1 July 2021- 30 June 2022