James, 89

James, aged 89, is a Stay Active client who lives at home with his 2 daughters. James moved to Australia from Sicily in the 50s, he worked hard picking fruit and cutting sugar cane until he was able to buy and build his home in Leichhardt where he raised his family. He often remarks that “everything you see here I built, except for
the chimney!”

James began with Stay Active in April 2024. He contacted his home care provider who was able fund his exercise physiology sessions through his Home Care Package.

At his initial consult, James explained that he suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), has a history of cardiac issues and reported knee pain, particularly in his left knee. This made life difficult for James, as he often felt breathless walking around his
home and he very rarely went out. James’ goal is to maintain a high level of function that allows him to continue living in his home for as long as possible. Tom, one of Stay Active’s AEPs, has visited James in his home for sessions twice a week, professionally progressing him through a tailored, evidence-based exercise program to gradually progress James' strength, mobility, aerobic fitness, and balance. 

 

This intervention has led to significant improvements in his functional ability. With guidance from Tom, James’ 30 second ‘sit to stand’ score has improved 75%, from 8 to 14, and his ‘timed up and go’ mobility score has improved 16%. James has improved his balance slightly and has also maintained his hand grip strength.

These improvements are more than just numbers; James continues to thrive at home and reports a noticeable reduction in knee pain, that he is much fitter and not as breathless completing tasks throughout the day. Tom and James are now able to walk to his local park to complete his exercise sessions!