Older adults in Lincolnshire are being given the opportunity to improve their strength and mobility thanks to help from the Strength and Balance Service.
As well as improving overall health and increasing confidence when it comes to exercise, these sessions can help anyone taking part to greatly decrease their risk of suffering a fall.
The service is funded by Lincolnshire County Council and delivered by One You Lincolnshire. It is a 24-week programme designed to support older adults to remain independent, through targeted and evidence-based exercises.
The pilot programme, which has been running for just over a year, is aimed at adults aged 65 years and over, who are deemed at risk of falling. It helps to improve strength and mobility through weekly classes, which take place in a range of community settings across Lincolnshire, with supplementary tailored support available outside of the sessions.
The programme is proving extremely popular in the first year of its pilot, with nearly 700 referrals being made so far and many of those taking part reporting that they feel more confident to remain mobile at home and able to enjoy a good healthy life.
Staying active in Lincolnshire
As people get older, keeping as fit and healthy as possible is important to maintain independence at home and in the community. Lincolnshire has more than 2,500 miles of public rights of way for you to enjoy and many good walking routes will include easily accessible paths. Tourist information centres, libraries or local organisations offer leaflets on walking routes – for more information on walking, as well as cycling and horse riding, click here.
And there are a host of opportunities in your area to join activities and events – including craft, arts, sport and games groups on a weekly basis. You can choose doing something you enjoy and have a passion for while also making good friendships. Take a look at what’s on offer in your area here using the Directory Homepage link.
‘Just getting out is a benefit to us all’
Jacqueline Popplewell was put forward for the One You Lincolnshire sessions after suffering a fall.
“I was referred by my GP originally after I had a fall,” she explained. “The fall caused me to lose confidence, and I have found the sessions to be extremely beneficial. I would recommend this class to anyone.
“These sessions have helped me, not just moving around the house, but also for when I’m out around the town or in the garden.
“Completing the course has helped me to gradually build up my strength, but also it has helped with techniques to improve my balance. We also finish each session with more of a social session, when we have a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy a catch-up.
“These sessions help in a lot of ways, I think even meeting people and just getting out is a benefit to us all.”
Kirby Lambert, senior health in older age lead, added: “The benefits we see in people completing these sessions are numerous. Physically they become stronger, but mentally it’s their improved confidence that makes the difference and it’s very rewarding to see their progress.”
The One You Lincolnshire sessions are designed to improve strength and balance. The programme is available to older adults through referral from a health care professional.
For more information, visit www.oneyoulincolnshire.org.uk.
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