Health and wellbeing at any age

What better way to celebrate turning 100 than balloons, cupcakes and an exercise session. That’s exactly how Point Lonsdale resident Carmen Ward marked her milestone birthday late last month at Bellarine Community Health’s Mobility Plus program.

Mrs Ward has been attending Bellarine Community Health’s weekly Mobility Plus Exercise program for the past four years, a routine she credits as vital to staying active and connected.

“We’re mainly sitting on our chairs, and standing up, but nothing too strenuous. We’re all older. But it keeps you going, and it’s nice to come and see other people,” Mrs Ward said.

The mother of four received congratulatory letters from the King and other dignitaries to mark her milestone birthday but remains modest about reaching the century mark.

“Well, I think it’s just another day, and I’ve told my friends and people around that it’s over now, and I’m just here, and I’m very fortunate, and we just keep on living,” she said.

Mrs Ward attributes her longevity to good genetics, noting her mother lived to 90 and an aunt to 99. However, her commitment to staying active and engaged has clearly played a significant role in her quality of life.

While she’s made some concessions to age, including using her late husband’s walker for safety on uneven surfaces, Mrs Ward continues her daily walking routine and lives independently at home.

“I remember doing meals on wheels a few years ago, and I’d go into these homes down here and here were these poor old things sitting in the chair all day, not moving at all. And I thought, that’s not the way to live,” Mrs Ward said.

She encourages others to find ways to stay active and says she will keep going with the Mobility Plus program for as long as she can. “Because it keeps you mobile, and you’re meeting people, and it’s just another day out.”

Bellarine Community Health’s Mobility Plus program provides gentle, chair-based exercises designed for older community members, helping participants maintain strength, balance, and social connection.

Learn more about BCH group exercise programs HERE.

Health and wellbeing at any age