Older people in Suffolk are being encouraged to take part in free exercise classes to help improve balance, fitness and flexibility.
Delivered by East Suffolk, Babergh and Mid Suffolk and Ipswich Borough Councils, the 12-week Strength and Balance programme aims to improve the balance, co-ordination, flexibility and confidence of residents aged 65 or over who have had a recent fall or feel unsteady on their feet.
The strength and balance classes are aligned to an evidence-based programme called OTAGO, which is a mixture of both strength and balance exercises led by a qualified instructor in a safe space.
Classes take place each week over a 12-week period, and each class lasts approximately 60 minutes. The exercises are designed to help people feel more confident on their feet, to get in and out of a chair and provide an opportunity to socialise with other members of the community with a shared goal to increase activity.
Cllr Sarah Whitelock, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for Communities, Culture, Leisure and Tourism said:
“Keeping active is essential for all ages but especially important as we get older. Most falls can be prevented, and some simple strength and balance exercises make all the difference to your mobility and confidence. The classes are also a great way to meet other people in your community, and ahead of this year’s Falls Prevention Week, I would encourage anyone over 65 who feels they may benefit from the programme to sign up.”
Cllr Laura Smith, Babergh District Council cabinet member for thriving communities, said:
“Staying active is an important part of maintaining our health and independence as we get older and these classes provide a supportive and welcoming environment to do just that.
“As well as helping people improve their strength and balance, they offer a great opportunity to meet new people and be part of your community.”
Cllr Tim Weller, Mid Suffolk District Council cabinet member for environment, culture and wellbeing, said:
“We’re proud to work alongside our partners across Suffolk and do our bit to help older residents improve their strength and balance.
“Taking part in this programme is a great way to feel more confident in your everyday life, so if you are looking to make a healthy change in your life, I strongly encourage you to find the closest sessions to you and get involved.”
Cllr Stefan Long, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sport said:
"Falls can have a significant impact on a person's independence, confidence and overall wellbeing, which is why programmes like these are so important. The strength and balance classes provide a supportive environment where older residents can improve their fitness, flexibility and stability while gaining confidence in their everyday movements.
“It’s a great opportunity for anyone who has experienced a fall, or who feels unsteady on their feet to take advantage of a free programme and perhaps meet new people at the same time.”
Dr Mike Smith, Executive Medical Director for NHS Norfolk and Suffolk ICB said:
“Falls are one of the most common reasons older people end up in hospital, but they are not an inevitable part of getting older. The evidence is clear that improving strength and balance is one of the most effective things any of us can do to reduce our risk.
“What I like about these classes is that they are practical, local and run in partnership with councils and community organisations, helping people stay independent, keep their confidence and carry on doing the things that matter to them.”
The programme is open to those over 65 years old who are at risk of falls, or who have recently had a fall, and who are registered with a GP within the East Suffolk, Mid Suffolk and Babergh or Ipswich Borough Council districts.
Healthcare professionals are also able to refer patients to the classes.
Anyone interested in the classes can find out more by contacting their local council:
Organised by the National Council on Aging (NCOA), Falls Prevention Awareness Week takes place between 21 and 25 September and aims to improve awareness, reduce falls, and help older adults feel safe and confident in their daily lives.