New interactive app puts foot health in Aboriginal hands!
An exciting new smartphone app is part of Ingke Arntarnte-areme Looking After Feet, a suite of resources being launched today, developed to help address foot health problems faced by Aboriginal people in Central Australian communities.
The app, developed by Central Australian Aboriginal Congress (Congress) in partnership with South Australia Health and Medical Research Institute (SAMHRI) is an interactive platform that provides important information for people at risk of diabetes related foot health problems using images, videos and other mediums, translated into several local Aboriginal languages.
“It is important to have this information in our languages.” said Congress Lead Female Cultural Advisor, Sabella Turner. “Being able to understand the health information will mean that people can recognise when things are not right with their feet, and get help from the doctor or podiatrist.”
Community consultation was central to the development of the new resources. Community members asked for resources that described what diabetes is and how it can lead to foot concerns, and emphasised the importance of privileging Aboriginal languages, lived experiences, strength-based narrative, and centring of culture in healing.
“These resources have been strengthened by the Aboriginal community.” Ms Turner continued.
“Over 35 community members contributed photos, music, art, and story. Even more gave feedback which was then used to make the information easier to understand.”
The app is complemented by a suite of print, animated and visual resources – and even a foot health song – all being launched at a special community event today from 11:30am-2:30pm at the Flynn Church Lawns in the Todd Mall in Mparntwe. All are welcome to attend for food, fun and an introduction into these resources. More information is available at caac.org.au.
Media enquiries: Kate Buckland kate.buckland@caac.org.au | 0408 741 691
