Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network
(HNECC PHN) is celebrating the publication of new research highlighting the
success of the EngAGE Community Pilot, an innovative program supporting older
adults to stay connected and improve their wellbeing.
The 15-week, telehealth-based program combined group
exercise and social engagement, delivered by student practitioners under
professional supervision. Of the 73 participants aged 65 and over, results from
those who completed the program showed significant improvements in loneliness,
social anxiety, psychological distress and overall quality of life.
Participants reported high levels of satisfaction, noting
the program’s accessibility, enjoyment and lasting benefits. The student-led
model also provided valuable hands-on experience for emerging health
professionals.
The findings demonstrate the potential for scalable,
cost-effective programs like EngAGE Community to address social isolation and
support healthy ageing in the community.