FIVE QUESTIONS is where we ask members of the community to talk about how they stay HEALTHY. Randwick scientist and grandmother Hilda Stender shared this:
What exercise did you do yesterday?
I’ve had two knee replacements – one four years ago and the other six months ago. As a result, my mobility has been compromised. However recently I’ve started walking again for about an hour a day and I also do some stretching exercises my physio gave me to do post op. Added to that, I make sure I walk up and down the internal stairs in my home at least ten times a day. All this keeps me mobile.
What did you eat today?
Every day I have a white coffee in the morning and then I have a late lunch which is usually a home-made soup. That’s usually everything I eat because as a result of being so inactive (due to my two knee replacements), I don’t need to eat much anymore.
How do you look after your mental health?
I’ve recently had someone tell me that because I’m old, I’m ‘allowed to be stupid’. I found it very patronising. I’ve been stressed lately because a DA has gone into council nearby that might mean I become housebound. It has been keeping me awake at night. For my mental health, I like to read, chat to my friends, my two sons and their families and stay as fit as possible. I speak German and English but I’m also learning two other languages.
When did you last see a primary health professional?
A few weeks ago. He tested my blood and when the results came back, he advised me to reduce my drinking.
What are your health goals for the next month?
I plan to keep building up my exercise routine and also stop drinking altogether.
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