According to the World Health Organisation, leading a sedentary lifestyle is one of 10 leading causes of death and disability.
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Even gentle, regular exercise such as walking or swimming can increase lifespan by around three to five years.
Many older people are capable of exercise, but for reasons not know to us they don't want to, Great Lakes Pharmacy, Tuncurry managing partner, Komal Chandra says.
Three weeks ago the pharmacy introduced a senior's walking program to its health solutions service.
Organised by pharmacy assistant and qualified personal trainer, Krissy Cusack, the group meet weekly on a Friday morning at the rotunda near the Tuncurry Rockpool for a walk - or stroll - some optional gentle exercise followed by a chat over coffee.
With the oldest aged in her 90s, Krissy said there was no age limit to group walkers.
"It is for all ages and all abilities, male and female," the 33-year-old said.
"No-one gets left behind; you don't have to run a marathon."
The return walk along the breakwall measures approximately two kilometres, and again there is no set pace.
Some come with their walking sticks, wheelchairs or walkers, Krissy said.
"Everyone is welcome, even the dog."
At the moment, the group meet at 8am.
However, as the season turns warmer and with daylight saving on the horizon, walking will begin at 7am.
I love helping people to get out there and become active.
- Krissy Cusack
"I love helping people to get out there and become active," Krissy said.
"And it is a beautiful way for people to meet each other."
Krissy said the weekly walk was more than just exercise, it was about socialising and making new friends.
"Many could be just sitting at home drinking coffee by themselves doing nothing."
Passionate about her new voluntary role, Krissy said there was a myriad of benefits for seniors from the walking program.
"It helps to maintain and increase mobility, it is good for cardiovascular health and massively good for mental and physical health and wellbeing."
A relative newcomer to the Great Lakes, Krissy has embraced the project with enthusiasm and the promise of making new friends.
"I have a lot to learn from our older community."
Even the Rockpool Cafe has joined the program, offering walkers a discounted coffee.
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Jeanene Duncan
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper. She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA), McPherson, Fairfax newspapers and Rural Press, and contributed to various magazines.
