David Lester is studying people aged over 80 to determine their ability to move around and what strategies they use to stay living at home.

“We are seeking a variety of people to take part in the study. People who move about easily and people who don’t. Everyone is welcome and needed.

“Older people want to stay living in their home. Often their ability to move around their home and community becomes a problem.

“Family, friends and health workers all want to help older people stay living at home where possible. There are lots of formal services and friendly help available to older people to help them live at home,” said Mr Lester.

The research project also aims to improve the connections between services and assistance available to older people to ensure they meet individual needs.

“There is an expectation our health care is based on evidence, but at the moment there isn’t as much evidence as we would like to show us the best ways to support older people to stay living at home,” said Mr Lester.

The study is supported by NSW Health, the University of Sydney and many of the local General Practices. The project is supervised by Professor Cathie Sherrington of the University of Sydney and The George Institute for Global Health.

Assessments will be in locations in the local towns, or can be at people’s homes.

“We are hoping to assess about 100 people who are aged over 80. The assessment will take about an hour and includes some physical tests and questions about the person’s health and ability to move and do daily tasks.

“We will also ask people to answer some further questions one year after the original assessment. This can happen by telephone.”

Anyone interested in taking part in this research project can contact David Lester at Bellingen Health Campus on 6659-5817 or contact their local general practice.