Based on international research about ageing, an updated app and website are being launched to help people stay stronger for longer and add life to their years.
The free and easy to use digital service, called LifeCurve, helps older adults stay active and independent. Users can take the LifeCurve quiz to map how they are ageing based on their ability to do 19 everyday activities – such as reaching their toes to cut their toenails, walking up and down stairs or cooking a hot meal.
They can then receive a personalised results package with movement routines and hints and tips on how to age better, stay active and improve their position on the LifeCurve.
Users can also choose a goal such as ‘Take care of myself’, ‘Manage everyday tasks more easily’ or ‘Improve my strength and balance’ to receive personalised advice based on research and knowledge from physiotherapists and occupational therapists.
Although developed in the Bay of Plenty, LifeCurve can be used by anyone in New Zealand.
An earlier version of the app was launched in the Bay of Plenty last year. However, the LifeCurve team at Te Whatu Ora knew they had more work to do.
The LifeCurve is based on Newcastle University research around age-related functional decline and has been in use in the United Kingdom since 2018. The research proves that ageing does not have to mean losing your abilities, as ageing is only 20 percent genetic.
Users can download the app from the Apple or Android (Google Play) app stores by searching for ‘LifeCurve’ or by visiting the LifeCruve website.
