MAINTAINING

INDEPENDENCE,
PROVIDING
LIFESTYLES

WHAT WE DO
The wildMANN group is a new business venture focused solely on keeping our older local
generation living safely and independently within their own homes.
The wildMANN team is comprised of two distinct - yet complementary - business arms, namely;
(1) Preventative property services incorporating all aspects of property maintenance
required to assist elderly Shellharbour residents to remain in their own home
independently, including:
 Property maintenance
 Yard maintenance
 Repair services

(2) Specialised lifestyle services incorporating an individualised falls prevention program.

The falls prevention program includes an evaluation of the older person’s:
 physical,
 functional, and
 falls preventative needs to ensure that he or she can remain as mobile and
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independent within their own home for as long as possible.

WHO WE ARE
Amy and Thomas Wildner are the husband and wife team behind the wildMANN group
concept. Theirs is a marriage, not only of minds, but also of skillsets.
Amy completed her degree in Exercise Physiology at the University of Wollongong in 1999.
Seeking international experience, Amy and Tom relocated to the United Kingdom in 2003.
Amy commenced employment with the UK National Health Services’ Falls Prevention and
Intermediate Care Team. During this time she developed a range of different physical activity
services for chronic health conditions, linking local health and public health services into
community based provisions on a county-wide basis.
Over many years working alongside geriatricians, falls specialists nurses, physiotherapists and
occupational therapists - and through a number of specialist training programs and initiatives -
Amy developed specialist knowledge in maintaining mobility, independence and falls
prevention in older people.
Tom is a former international airline pilot and has lived and worked all over the world. He
commenced his working life as a plumber with his father’s company. Tom has extensive
experience in the renovation of kitchens, bathrooms, decking, roofing and installation of hand
rails and other home modifications for landlords both in Australia and internationally.
Tom is also an experienced gardener. During a pre-aviation stint in the United Kingdom, Tom
was honoured to be selected to work in the Queen’s gardens caring for the lawns and flower
beds at Kensington Palace, Kensington Park and St James Park.

WHY THE ELDERLY MATTER TO US

Through travels across the globe the wildMANN group, have identified what a truly wonderful
nation Australia is. Our generation owes a huge debt of gratitude to those older members of
our communities who have made it what it is today. Many of our elderly community served our
country through great personal sacrifice to enable us to enjoy the lifestyle that we are now so
fortunate to lead. It is a privilege to be able to express our appreciation for this sacrifice
through the provision of the wildMANN group services to our local community. Older people
also have a wealth of knowledge and experience and are a very important element within our
community. By promoting healthy ageing and reducing the associated risks and incidence of
falls, our older population can lead an active lifestyle and more significantly maintain their
independence.
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SPECIALIST FALLS PREVENTION PROGRAM

The wildMANN group intends to establish a provision of ongoing community based group
exercise classes for the prevention of falls and injuries in older people. They have been
designed around the Australian Best Practice Guidelines for Falls Prevention and Best Practice
Recommendations of Exercise to Prevent Falls in Older Adults. They state that up to 42% of falls
can be prevented by a well-designed exercise program,1 therefore the program has been
developed to incorporate all eight recommendations.

The classes will consist of Dynamic Balance Exercises, Dynamic Endurance Exercises, Targeted
Resistance Strength Training and Flexibility Exercises. In addition they will provide the
technique and skills needed to get up from the floor, improving mobility and confidence levels
and reduce the fear of falling.

The program will be delivered by Amy and employed exercise physiologists with specialist
knowledge in the prevention of falls and injuries in older people. The sessions will be run in the
community on a weekly basis throughout the year, with one hour of exercise followed by a hot
drink and social element, including the opportunity to ask our specialised staff any questions.
The community and group environment will also target social isolation, which is often
encountered by this population, providing participants with regular outings and encouraging
companionship.
Home based exercises will be recommended on an individual basis to assist in the development
of a regular exercise routine, maintaining an active lifestyle and to assist in the physiological
improvements specifically associated with balance (additionally meeting the best practice
recommendation for dosage).
An additional falls specific program of health related educational seminars, will be held within
the community to inform older people of how to manage their falls risk, in order to prevent a
fall occurring. These seminars will provide individuals with information and knowledge to
improve their awareness and confidence, as well as reducing their fear of falling, in order to
maintain their independence and remain active in the community. The program consists of
eight, two hour seminars covering topics such as; Goal Setting, Healthy Bones, Managing
Continence, Vision, Footwear, Safety at Home and Away, Managing Medication and Sleep,
Managing Chronic Pain, Balance and Exercise to Prevent Falls.
These Specialised Falls Prevention provisions are anticipated to be rolled out across the
Shellharbour Local Government Area, hosted in suitable local venues. This includes population
specific accessibility, first aid facilities and appropriate venue insurances. All staff providing
these services will be Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA) Accredited, which requires
current First Aid and CPR certification, instructor-to-participant ratios and Public Liability and
Professional Indemnity Insurances.
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WHAT MOTIVATES US
Our slogan, ‘Maintaining Independence, Providing Lifestyles’ is at the heart of everything our
business represents. We understand the importance of maintaining independence as we grow
older. Older locals in our community often report to us that they feel their choices are
systematically robbed of them as they age. Remaining in their own home is one such choice. It
is often removed from the elderly because they do not wish to impose upon their families when
they are no longer able to physically maintain their properties, or they become fearful that they
may trip or fall as part of the ageing process.
Our business seeks to address both of these concerns. We are passionate about empowering
the elderly in our local community to retain their sense of independence and to remain in their
home without feeling that they are a burden on their families or friends.
By maintaining independence, we also provide an improvement in lifestyles – not only for the
elderly – but also for their extended support network. The security of knowing that their loved
one is able to remain in their home of choice without fear of falling or property repair issues,
cannot be underestimated.

WHY OUR BUSINESS MATTERS

Falls are the leading cause of hospital admissions for older people within our community with
one-in-three people over 65 years and one-in-two people over 80 falling each year.2
Furthermore, 30% of our population over the age of 65 have a fear of falling subsequently
impacting their mental health as well as their physical health.3 The psychological impact of a
fear of falling is intrinsically linked to a loss of mobility and independence. This leads to the
challenging issue of independence vs safety for the elderly and their extended support
networks.
There are a large number of risk factors associated with falls. Significant risk factors include; a
history of falls, muscle weakness, poor balance, visual impairment, polypharmacy and the use
of psychotropic and anti-arrhythmic medicines, environmental hazards and a number of specific
health conditions. These conditions include arthritis, cognitive impairment, depression,
diabetes, high alcohol consumption, incontinence, Parkinson’s disease, stroke and syncope.4
When our elderly population start falling in their own home, this also causes additional financial
burdens for our local community due to the risk of hospitalisation and other attendant
treatments. Latest New South Wales (NSW) figures indicate the average cost per Hospital
admission is $20,563, Emergency department attendance is $3,169 and non-hospital treatment
is $462. The total annual cost to NSW medically for falls injuries in older people was estimated
at $558.5 million.2
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In addition to the health care costs, there is a hidden burden of falls on older people, their
relatives and carers. An injurious fall can have significant personal and economic consequences
for the individual and their family. As well as the injury, associated pain and disability suffered,
falls can also result in fear of falling,5 decreased levels of activity,6,7 loss of independence,8
raised levels of anxiety and depression,9 post-traumatic stress disorder,10 admission to
residential care,11 and sometimes death.
Through early intervention, home hazard reduction and individualised planning with our older
local population, the wildMANN group makes significant cost reductions not only for the
participants in our program, but also for the wider community and Governments alike.

PEACE OF MIND THROUGH INDIVIDUALISED PLANS

The wildMANN group provides peace of mind for the elderly as well as their support networks.
We conduct a number of assessments within the older person’s home, to identify their physical,
functional and falls prevention needs. In so doing, the wildMANN group develop an
individualised plan that assesses not only the elderly person’s goals, but also any attendant
family concerns which may impact upon the service delivery. We identify the individual’s goals
and map these against needs to provide a comprehensive plan designed to allow the elderly
person to remain independent in their own home for as long as possible. The plan may include:
 property maintenance, repair or accessibility;
 the use of functional aides;
 participation in group based Falls Prevention Exercise Classes;
 one-to-one strength training and balance sessions.
The financial benefits of engaging the wildMANN group are substantial. By enabling older
people the choice of remaining in their own home (often their primary asset) they are not
placed in a position where they have to sell their home and dilute those funds through
additional purchases of more accessible property. This has benefits for not only the elderly, but
their beneficiaries as well which is no doubt a consideration for our older local community
members.

HOW WE CONNECT THE ELDERLY IN OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

The Falls Prevention Group Exercise Classes are designed to provide participants not only with
their physical and functional support, but also social connection.
All too often, circumstances associated with ageing can cause individuals to be home alone, or
to be otherwise socially isolated. Joining in our group classes will allow the elderly to establish
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connections with others who are at a similar life stage and to enjoy social interaction in a
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wonderful, supportive environment. The physical activity elements in our group classes are
based on best practice recommendations for falls prevention and are designed to improve
mobility, independence and confidence as well as to reduce the risk and incidence of further
falls within the home and community environments. They are provided on an ongoing basis,
which is necessary for lasting falls prevention effects, as the benefits are rapidly lost when
exercise is ceased.

WHO WE SERVICE
The wildMANN group service an extensive demographic within the local community. Older
people are defined as Australian residents aged 65 years and over and Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander people aged 50 years and over.
In order for our specialised classes to best meet the needs of our clients, the following criteria
have been established for participant eligibility.
Inclusion Criteria
 Community Dwelling Older Adults
 Self-mobilising with or without walking aid
 Medically stable with signed Doctor’s referral
There are no limitations to undertake home based provisions or attend the Falls Prevention
seminars.

LOCAL STATISTICAL SUPPORT FOR OUR BUSINESS MODEL

Shellharbour City has an ageing population with older people representing 16.8% of the total
population.12 In the five years from 2011 to 2016, Shellharbour’s population of Older People
increased by 26.6%. This population group has been projected to increase by a further 31.5% by
2026 and 55.6% by 2036.12 Such older people population growths are reaching epidemic
proportions and have been labelled the ‘Silver Tsunami’.
The largest increases locally, currently and forecasted, will occur in the 65 to 69 year old age
group, therefore the falls concern is not just an interim issue, it is going to be a concern well
into Shellharbour’s future. With evidence suggesting that one-in-three people over the age of
65 years and 50% of those 80+ years of age will fall each year, there is clearly a significant need
for pro-active measures such as those provided by the wildMANN group to address these
concerning statistics.
Although, statistics show Shellharbour City’s proportion of Older People and Lone Persons are
on average below Regional NSW figures, it varies significantly across the city with some areas
such as Warilla, well above the Regional, State and National averages. The location of our
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Specialised Falls Prevention Classes within the community will be established in the suburbs
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with the most densely populated older people and lone persons according to the latest ABS
statistics. Tables 1.1, 1.2, 2.1 and 2.2 representing the Shellharbour suburbs with greatest
numbers and percentages have been provided in Appendix 1.

SERVICE LINKAGES
The wildMANN group services have been designed to fulfil an identified need within our
community, supporting our older population to live safely and independently in their own
home for as long as possible. Current provisions within the community for falls prevention
include the Port Kembla Hospital Falls Group (two, two hour education sessions), Stepping On
(eight, two hour exercise and education sessions) and a 12 week Health Moves program for
Chronic Conditions. Our services will assist by providing specific and specialised exit routes as
well as local ongoing provisions within the community to improve the independence, physical
and emotional health of this specific population.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES
The expected outcomes for the wildMANN group home based services include improved
mobility, independence, confidence and a reduced fear of falling. These outcomes will be
measured through the completion of a Physical Assessment, Falls Efficacy Scale-I and a Visual
Analogue Scale, pre and post intervention. Furthermore, Falls Prevention class participants will
undertake an additional Functional Assessment upon commencement and at six monthly
intervals.
The rate and incidence of falls in the community and in own homes will also decrease. These
too will be monitored at the above mentioned intervals. As a result, it is predicted that there
will be a knock on effect reducing the demands on the Health Service with a reduction in Falls
related hospital admissions, emergency department attendances and non-hospital treatments.
For those older people in the community who do suffer a fall, our services will also improve
treatment, including secondary prevention.
Social isolation of class participants will also be reduced. This will be monitored through the use
of a Visual Analogue Scale for loneliness. The Falls prevention classes will provide participants
with not just a social outing, but also companionship, an extended support network and a sense
of belonging.
All in all, the wildMANN group services will improve the quality of life of older people within our
community, as well as the lifestyle of individuals, families and communities.
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 The initiative and vision of the wildMANN group closely align with the
strategies and actions within the Community Strategic Plan, Council specific plans
and state initiatives. These have been outlined below:

Shellharbour City Community Strategic Plan 2013 – 2023

Our Community
Objective Strategy
1.1 1.1.6
Vibrant, safe and inclusive city Meet the diverse needs of the community
through the delivery of quality and accessible
community services and programs
1.2 1.2.1
Active and healthy community Provide residents access to a range of services
and facilities that are relevant and responsive
to health and wellbeing
1.2.3
Provide a range of accessible recreational
opportunities and associated facilities to cater
for a broad range of ages, abilities and
interests

NSW Illawarra / South Coast Regional Action Plan

Priority 4
 Deliver improved health and community services particularly for vulnerable
communities

NSW State Plan Goals 2021

Quality Services
 Keep people healthy and out of hospital
 Better protect the most vulnerable members of our community and break the cycle of
disadvantage
Strengthen our Local Environment and Communities
 Increase opportunities for seniors in NSW to fully participate in community life
 Enhance cultural, creative, sporting and recreational activities
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REFERENCES

1. Sherrington C, Tiedemann A, Fairhall N, Close JCT, and Lord SR. Exercise to prevent falls
in older adults: an updates meta-analysis and best practice recommendations, NSW
Public Health Bulletin 2011; Vol. 22(3-4).
2. Watson W, Clapperton A, Mitchell R, The incidence and cost of falls injury among older
people In New South Wales 2006/07. Sydney; NSW Department of Health, 2010.
3. Parry SW, Bamford C, Deary V, Finch TL, Gray J, MacDonald C, et al. Cognitive-
behavioural therapy-based intervention to reduce fear of falling in older people: therapy
development and randomised controlled trial – the Strategies for Increasing
Independence, Confidence and Energy (STRIDE) study. Health Technol Assess Winch
Engl. 2016 Jul;20(56):1-206
4. Public Health England with the National Falls Prevention Coordination Group member
organisations 2017, Falls and fracture concensus statement Supporting commissioning
for prevention. Accessed online at:
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachm
ent_data/file/586382/falls_and_fractures_consensus_statement.pdf
5. Cummings R, Salkeld G, Thomas M, Szonyi G. Prospective study of the impact of fear of
falling on Activities of Daily Living, SF-36 scores, and nursing home admission. J Gerontol
A Biol Sci Med Sci 2000; 55: M299-M305.
6. Howland J, Lachman ME, Peterson EW, Cote J, Kasten L, Jette A. Covariates of fear of
falling and associated activity curtailment. Gerontologist 1998; 38(5): 549-555.
7. King M, Tinetti M. Falls in community-dwelling older persons. J Am Geriatr Soc 1995;
43(10): 1146-54.
8. Tinetti M, Powell L. Fear of falling and low self-efficacy: A cause of dependence in
elderly persons. J Gerontol 1993; 48 (Special Issue): 35-38.
9. Downton J, Andrews K. Postural disturbance and psychological symptoms amongst
elderly people living at home. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 1990; 5(2): 93-98.
10. Chung M, McKee KJ, Austin C, Barkby H, Brown H, Cash S, Ellingford J, Hanger L, Pais T.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in older people after a fall. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2009;
24(9):955-964.
11. Tinetti M, Williams C. Falls, injuries due to falls, and the risk of admission to a nursing
home. N Engl J Med 1997; 337(18): 1279-1284.
12. Australian Bureau of Statistics 2016, Census of Population and Housing 2011 and 2016.
Compiled and presented by Informed Decisions (.id). Accessed online at:
http://profile.id.com.au/shellharbour/population
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 Appendix 1

Shellharbour City Population

Table 1.1: Suburbs with the Greatest Numbers of Older People

Suburb Number
Albion Park – Rural West 1,803
Warilla 1,506
Albion Park Rail – Croom 1,303
Oak Flats 1,205
Barrack Heights 1,099

Table 1.2: Suburbs with the Greatest Numbers of Older Lone Persons
Suburb Number
Warilla 415
Albion Park – Rural West 287
Oak Flats 252
Barrack Heights 247
Albion Park Rail – Croom 235

Table 2.1: Suburbs with the Greatest Percentage of Older People

Suburb Percentage
Warilla 23
Mount Warrigal 21.6
Lake Illawarra 21.2
Shellharbour – Barrack Point 19.1
Albion Park Rail – Croom, Barrack 18.7
Heights, Oak Flats

Table 2.2: Suburbs with the Greatest Percentage of Older Lone Persons
Suburb Percentage
Warilla 15.7
Lake Illawarra 14.5
Barrack Heights 11
Oak Flats 10.4
Shellharbour – Barrack Point 9.5
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