Movement is Medicine

June 25, 2025

Movement is medicine 

At 75, Yvonne Cain is redefining what it means to age well.  

A proud resident of Southern Cross Care’s (NSW & ACT) Cardinal Gilroy Village in Merrylands, she is embracing their wellness program with a passion that’s putting people more than half her age to shame. 

Six days a week, you’ll find her in the village’s state-of-the-art gym, powering through a mix of cardio, strength, stretch, and balance classes which she says has given her a whole new lease on life. 

“There’s no way I’d be this healthy and fit without the gym and the wonderful staff to help me use it,” Yvonne says beaming.  

“I truly believe that you’re never too old to train, I’m an example of that, old age really is just a number.” 

In just ten weeks, her results have been remarkable. Yvonne no longer experiences shortness of breath, and her improved strength has helped her tone up and feel more confident to do the things she loves like volunteering in the village, cooking and looking after her garden.  

“I really do live by the motto ‘use it or lose it’,” she said.  

“Some mornings when it’s cold it is hard to get to the gym, but my grandkids keep me motivated, and I honestly feel so much better for it. 

“I’m so very lucky to be in a village that has a gym and wellness program run by such supportive staff.” 

Southern Cross Care is offering something many other providers don’t – personalised programs for residents to get fit, stay fit, and live their best lives. 

By investing in wellness and state-of-the-art facilities, they’re shifting the narrative around aged care, placing a strong focus on living well rather than simply ageing.  

At the heart of this transformation is Alexia Kazanzidis a, 25-year-old exercise physiologist who trains residents at the gym, has seen Yvonne’s transformation firsthand.  

“As an exercise physiologist working at the wellness centre, I’ve seen how unique this space really is,” she said.  

“It’s more than just a gym - it’s a supportive environment where people of all ages and abilities can work on improving their health, mobility, and independence.  

“Our exercise classes are tailored to individual needs, whether someone’s managing a chronic condition or simply wanting to stay active and mobile as they age. 

 “I can’t stress this enough - movement is medicine.  

“It’s not just about fitness or looking a certain way; it’s about feeling good, reducing your risk of disease, maintaining your independence, and improving your quality of life. 

“I’m very proud to say our homes are places to live, not just to age,”