|
|||||||||||
 |
|||||||||||
|
Why use this indicator?Healthy weight and the associated risk factors are National and State priority health issues. Maintaining an active lifestyle impacts positively on the health and wellbeing of an individual as well as the broader community. A healthy and active individual is more likely to contribute to the community and participate in social and physical activities. Healthy, active communities are less likely to suffer from associated medical conditions including heart attacks and diabetes, thereby reducing the burden on the medical system and the associated economic and social costs. Council has a significant role to play in ensuring the provision of appropriate recreational opportunities in the planning and development of urban areas. Providing parks, walking and bike tracks and pathways is an important factor in encouraging active lifestyles. What is the current situation?Physical activity levels of adults are below the NSW average. Physical activity levels of adults has increased slightly from 41.6% to 45.8%, but are still below the NSW average of 55%. Obesity in the population (aged 16 and over) has increased from 54.4% to 55.6%. This is higher than the NSW average of 53.4%. Penrith is the third heaviest metropolitan area in NSW. There has been an increase in the percentage of population undertaking physical activity, however there has also been an increase in the number of residents that are overweight or obese. Obesity and physical activity levels within the population remain a challenge. Events have been held for residents to raise awareness on the prevention and treatment of diabetes, asthma and heart disease. These were held in partnership with the Penrith Star and health professionals in the area. Taking part in exercise was a key focus for the events. Each year, 'Walk to Work' day is promoted in the local papers and staff and residents have been encouraged to participate for their own health and the health of the environment. Staff involved in planning for open spaces and development incorporate targeted recreational opportunities, such as linking of pathways to encourage increased use. Over the financial year a total of 30km of additional path paving was completed in the North, East and South Wards as part of the annual Path Paving Program, a further 1.8km of path paving works was delivered by Council and 1.5km of cycleway has been constructed along The Northern Road, Cranebrook between Andrews Road and Borrowdale Way and in Jamison Road, South Penrith. To complement programs to increase physical activity a range of healthy eating programs have been initiated. Council supported the NSW Health 'Go for 2 and 5' fruit and vegetable campaign. Demonstrations and cooking classes with community groups were held and resources were distributed to adults who prepare the meals and parents with young children. Council childcare centre menus are assessed for the nutritional quality of the meals prepared. What is the desired trend?An increase in the number of residents who undertake exercise on a regular basis. What does this mean for the Sustainability of Penrith City?Health is a key factor in the quality of our City’s people and their contribution
to the community. Providing opportunity for recreational pursuits can result
in healthier, interactive communities. Case Study - Ready Set Skate
[ back to top ] |
||||||||||
| © Copyright Penrith City Council 2009 | Home | Penrith City Website | Sitemap | Glossary | Contact |