Who is the programme aimed at?
The classes are aimed at older adults (aged over 65), who have had falls, are afraid of falling or who are at a high risk of falls. The classes are also suitable for younger adults, who may have joint and/or mobility difficulties or those who need low level activity.
How do I access the programme?
Referral to the programme can be made through your GP, Practice Nurse, District Nurse and any other Health Professional, stating: “Falls Prevention”. The referral is then sent to Active Living and you will then be contacted by one of our admin team. We will then speak to you to decide on a suitable class and start date and see if you require transport to get to and from the classes.
How long will I attend the programme for?
The programme is for 26 weeks. Assessments will be carried out at the end of the programme, to monitor progress and to decide on next steps.
Why will I need to have an assessment?
Assessments consist of simple exercises, which are undertaken to assess participant improvements through the programme. Assessment are carried out at week 1 and repeated again on completion of the programme.
Classes are designed to improve balance, co-ordination, reactions, quality of life and improve your confidence when carrying out day to day tasks , so that you can maintain independence in your own home.
Other benefits include improvements in strength, which will make walking and getting out and about much easier. Regular exercise has even led to a reduction in the use of walking aids, for some of our participants.
The programme is an evidence based exercise programme of activities and comprises of 4 different levels …
- Level 1 - Chairbased Exercise
Exercises designed to help with mobility and strength, all performed in the chair
- Level 2 – Falls Prevention
The exercises are aimed to help with balance, re-action and co-ordination in both seated and standing positions
- Level 3 - Strength and Balance programme
The exercises are again aimed to help with balance, re-action and co-ordination, with most of the class performed whilst standing
- Level 4 - Short walks, Tai Chi, Low level aerobics and Circuit style classes
The aim of these sessions are to promote independence for everyday living and to help maintain all the health benefits of the other sessions within the programme. Once you have been referred, we will discuss which class will be best for you and also give you an individualised home exercise, which will be regularly checked and up-dated by your instructor.
What Health Professionals/Organisations do Active Living work with, in order to provide this service?
Active Living staff work very closely with a wide range of Health Professionals, including the Hospital Falls Prevention teams, GPs, Physio’s, Practice / District Nurses, other Health Professionals and Older People's services.
Active Living also work with Sheltered Accommodations, Residential Homes, Older People's Day Care Services and other Older People's charities and community services.
Where are the classes held?
The classes are held across the Wigan Borough, in accessible Health, Community and Sheltered Housing venues.
How would I get there?
Transport can be arranged for the Postural Stability classes and some Strength and Balance classes, if needed.
How much do the classes cost?
The classes cost £3.00 with transport and £2.00 without transport.
How long is a class?
The classes last for approx 1hour and include some social time at the beginning or end of the class.
Yes. Your class instructor will speak to you before you start the exercises and ask you to work at your own pace and rest if needed, at any point. All the exercises are low impact and are based around day to day activities i.e. reaching, walking on uneven surfaces and general mobility. The programme consists of evidence based exercises, which can be done in a chair or standing.
If you require any further information or advice, about this programme please contact 01942 488481.
