These are available to all seniors who are mobile, living independently or in retirement villages and aged over 65, or over 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

Feros Care health and wellness director Kate Swanton said fitness and flexibility became even more important as we aged.

"There is already a waiting list for the Forever Young series of 10-week exercises programs on the Far North Coast so well feel very confident the program will be well received in the Illawarra," she said.

Forever Young is a 10-week group exercise program held each week at a hall or retirement village.

The participants have a health screening, then take part in eight weeks of exercise classes before a final assessment. It costs $5 a week.

The Strong Foundation program works with individuals in their homes - a physiotherapist or occupational therapist assesses the person, then tailors an exercise program.

It involves seven visits at home and two phone calls, costing $10 per visit.

IOH Wollongong and the Physical Therapy Group are the programs' Illawarra providers.

IOH director Linda Hogg said it was great the programs were coming to the Illawarra, which had many retirees.

"It focuses a lot on balance, not just strengthening. Balance as you get older is the problem," Mrs Hogg said.

Registrations: 1300 085 181 or www.feroscare.com.au/HACC 

WOLLONGONG ADVERTISER