Older man talking to St John trainer about CPR

New First Aid for Seniors Class to support community safety

St John Ambulance Tasmania, through its Scooters & Mobility division, is launching a vital new initiative to support the safety and well-being of seniors in the community. The First Aid for Seniors class debuts 29th October at 10:30am at Scooters & Mobility store,177 Main Road, Moonah.

This free session is designed to equip older Tasmanians with essential first aid skills that can make a life-saving difference in emergency situations, while also helping to maintain their independence. In addition to practical first aid training, the class will feature demonstrations of everyday safety tools like easy-pour kettles and personal safety alarms.

But it’s not just about learning first aid—this initiative is also about fostering a sense of community. The session offers an opportunity for seniors to connect, share experiences, and enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere over tea and biscuits. Staying socially engaged is just as important as staying physically safe, and this class aims to provide both.

Why First Aid is Crucial for Seniors

As we age, our health needs evolve, and first aid becomes an essential part of staying safe and independent. Here are just a few reasons why first aid is so important for seniors:

Higher Risk of Falls: Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. Knowing how to assess injuries and provide basic care can prevent complications and give seniors more confidence in their everyday activities.
Managing Chronic Conditions: Seniors are more likely to experience health crises related to conditions like diabetes or heart disease. First aid skills—such as managing low blood sugar or responding to a heart attack—can be life-saving.
Maintaining Independence: First aid isn’t just about reacting to emergencies; it’s also about prevention. Learning simple strategies to create a safer home environment, like installing safety devices or using mobility aids correctly, can help seniors live independently for longer.

What You’ll Learn at the First Aid for Seniors Class

At the First Aid for Seniors class, participants will learn a variety of essential skills tailored to seniors' needs, including:

Falls and Injury Management: Learn how to assess and handle falls, one of the most common risks for older adults. We’ll show you how to assist someone safely and what steps to take to prevent further injury.
CPR and Defibrillator Use: Sudden cardiac arrest is a significant risk for older adults. We’ll provide hands-on demonstrations of CPR and show you how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED), which is becoming increasingly common in public places.
Everyday Safety Devices: In addition to first aid skills, we’ll introduce tools like easy-pour kettles, personal safety alarms, and other devices that can make daily life safer and simpler.
Responding to Medical Emergencies: From strokes to heart attacks, we’ll cover how to recognise early warning signs and what to do immediately. For example, you’ll learn the F.A.S.T. method for recognising strokes, which can significantly improve recovery outcomes.

A Chance to Connect and Stay Social

In addition to the practical skills, this class offers a valuable social connection. For seniors, staying socially active is key to mental and emotional well-being. This session is not just a chance to learn, but also an opportunity to enjoy some friendly conversation, meet new people, and build community over a cup of tea and biscuits.

Take part in our class!

We invite all seniors to join us on Tuesday, 29th October at 10:30 am at the Scooters & Mobility store, 177 Main Road, Moonah. Whether you're looking to gain life-saving first aid skills, explore useful safety tools, or simply enjoy a social gathering with friendly faces, this event has something for everyone.

Spaces are limited, so don’t forget to reserve your spot today by emailing community@stjohntas.org.au or by calling (03) 6278 7790.

Can’t make it to the class? Email us your interest in booking a First Aid for Seniors session at your local community centre, retirement village, or club! We’d love to bring this vital knowledge to you and your group.