Older residents are being encouraged to take positive steps towards staying active and independent by signing up for a free 12-week falls prevention programme launching at Walney Community Centre this July.
Funded by Active Cumbria and delivered by the BEATS team at Barrow Leisure Centre, the Otago Falls Prevention Programme is seeking 12 older adults to take part.
The evidence-based programme is designed to improve balance, strength, mobility and confidence, while helping to reduce the risk of falls.
One participant explained how the programme had made a noticeable difference to everyday life:
“My knees feel much stronger, and I can now do simple things like put my socks on more easily. I also feel more confident walking on uneven ground, which means I can enjoy walks along the beach again – Otago has helped me make real progress and feel more independent.”
Dr Arun of Abbey Road Surgery also praised the programme following research carried out locally.
“A pilot research study, completed as part of a University of Bath dissertation at Barrow Leisure Centre, found that the Otago Exercise Programme significantly improved balance, mobility, strength and physical function in older adults at risk of falls. An improvement of 40 per cent was recorded across four measures of balance and muscle power during the 12-week study period.
“Participants became steadier and more confident in everyday activities, supporting Otago as an effective, evidence-based programme for maintaining independence and reducing fall risk.”
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and loss of independence among older adults. Programmes such as Otago can help people feel steadier, become more confident in daily life and continue doing the activities they enjoy.
With only 12 places available, organisers are encouraging anyone who meets the criteria and would like to improve their strength, mobility and confidence to register early.
It is open to people aged 65 and over who are worried about their balance or have experienced a fall in the past. Participants should be independently mobile, able to stand and get in and out of a chair without assistance, and able to follow instructions safely during the exercises.
Sessions will take place every Monday at 1.30pm at Walney Community Centre, beginning on 20 July. Over the 12 weeks, participants will complete structured exercises in a friendly and supportive environment, helping them remain active and maintain their independence for longer.
The programme is fully funded by Active Cumbria, meaning participation is completely free.
For more information or to reserve a place, contact Lauren at Barrow Leisure Centre by emailing healthandfitness@barrowleisure.co.uk or calling 01229 871146.
Alternatively, ask your GP or healthcare professional about being referred through the BEATS scheme. More information is available at www.barrowleisure.co.uk/beats-gp.