IRT CEO Patrick Reid said it explored many ways to help enhance the well-being of residents and customers.

 “We understand how important it is for older Australians to maintain their independence so they can keep doing the things they want, when and how they want to. Sadly, inactivity can mean losing this ability through loss of mobility,” he said.

“This is why we are focused on improving access to health and fitness services, not only for IRT residents and customers but all seniors in our surrounding community.”

IRT has 29 independent living villages across NSW, the ACT and Queensland. At IRT Kangara Waters Retirement Village in Belconnen, ACT, it has created a unique seniors’ health and fitness centre, Movewell, with Illawarra-based Phytness Healthcare.

Classes are tailored to the needs of the individual, guided by an exercise physiologist, for a fee. One on one podiatry and physiotherapy consultations are also available at a price.

Movewell is open to village residents and seniors in the surrounding community. Resident and Movewell member Robyn, 83 years, is very happy the village now has an exercise program.

 “I believe that exercise is very important as we age, but I need the discipline of being committed to a class to get me motivated. Now that the classes are available onsite down at the Movewell Hub I’m going to classes every day and really enjoying them,” she said.

Robyn said there are a variety of classes to choose from. She is attending Pilates, Strength and Conditioning and Hydrotherapy classes with a goal to keep mobile, avoid falling, keep her body functioning well and to stay strong.

Mary-Ann, a resident, especially values that an exercise physiologist guides all the classes and provides one-on-one support.

“The classes are small, the supervision is very personalised and incredibly encouraging,” she said.

If Movewell is successful at IRT Kangara Waters Retirement Village, then it will be considered for other villages. 

Be sure to ask what exercise classes are available if you like the look of any retirement living facility seen on villages.com.au.