7 May 2008

 

There’s nothing quite like a lasting and moving gift for mum – and the more lasting and moving it is, the better.

 

That’s the Mothers’ Day message from AMA Victoria this year.

 

With increasing numbers of patients presenting with high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis and some cancers, AMA Victoria President Dr Doug Travis says active gifts will probably mean more Mothers’ Days for mum.

 

 “Gym memberships, running shoes, fitness DVDs and even skipping ropes are great gifts that encourage your mum to get active and to show that you care, says Dr Travis.

 

“Compare the benefits of a renewable gym membership with a bouquet of roses; one blossoms year after year, the other dies in a week.

 

“Get active with your mum on Mothers’ Day,” says Dr Travis. “Google the local councils and find the nearest heritage walks, go bowling, enjoy a game of tennis or badminton in the back yard, take her to a dance class or a brisk walk around the zoo. Hire a bike and do the Yarra bank. Maybe it’s slow motion like a tai chi lesson in the park…

 

“Dare to be different!”

 Dr Travis says Mothers Day is a good time to talk to your mum about making the right choices to stay fit and healthy.

 

“When it comes to her health, you want your mum to do the right things such as avoiding risk factors like smoking, excessive drinking and carrying too much weight. It will mean you will have her around for longer.

 

“If your mum is a smoker, encourage her to seek help to quit. She will thank you for it eventually - and could save around $2,500 a year.

 

“That’s a few years’ gym membership for a start.”

 

More than half of all Australian women are overweight or obese. Being overweight increases the risk of developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis and some cancers, Dr Travis says.