Veterans' Health Week (VHW) 2013
Veterans’ Health Week will be held on 14–20 October 2013 and provides an opportunity for veterans, war widows, widowers, current and ex-Australian Defence Force members and their families to participate, connect and influence the health and wellbeing of themselves and their friends.
DVA will be partnering with ex-service organisations (ESOs) and community groups to develop a program of fun and interactive VHW activities at a local level.
This year’s theme is "Physical Activity - Fitness, Strength, Flexibility, and Balance". Physical acitivity participation is good for health. There is an appropriate type and amount of physical activity for each and every person. VHW 2013 participants will receive the tools and information necessary to help them better understand their body and its limits.
A range of activities will focus on the key messages of the Week.
- Find the Strength - the mental strength to be able to participate in activities to help prevent illness and injury.
- Develop the Flexibility - taking a flexible approach to how you structure your day to enable you to be active throughout the course of a normal day.
- Maintain the Balance - finding the right balance of exercise, nutrition, and rest.
- Enjoy the Fitness - the condition in which a person's body is physically healthy through exercise and good nutrition.
VHW Events & Activities
As we get nearer to VHW 2013, we will provide information about events and activities in your State or Territory.
Resources
Resources are being developed to assist event organisers to organise events and activities during VHW. These downloadable resources will be available shortly.
Commonly asked questions
Can anyone participate?
All members of the veteran and service communities, their friends, carers and families are welcome to participate. This year DVA is hoping that members of the veteran community will make a special effort to come along with friends, family and acquaintances who don’t normally get involved in veteran activities.
How can I get involved?
Invite friends, family and acquaintances and come along to events planned in your local area and take part in the fun. Contact your local VAN office for event details.
Can my organisation host its own event?
DVA encourages ex-service and community organisations, Day Clubs, and Men’s Health Peer Education volunteers to organise activities throughout VHW. This year, as the theme is Physical Activity, we are also encouraging everyone to consider what activities they can commence now, such as establishing a walking or fitness group, and then take the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the group during VHW 2013.
Where can I go for more information?
For more information on planning an event, or to find out what events may be taking place in your area, contact the VHW team at or call your local Veterans' Access Network (VAN) office.