Free physical activity classes aim to reduce hospital admissions for falls

Cheshire East Council is offering its older residents free access to a ‘stand strong’ programme to help reduce the number of fall-related emergency admissions which happen in the borough.

Data from October 2022 to September 2023 shows that on average 218 people aged 65 plus are being admitted to hospital following a fall or trip each month across Cheshire East. 

These figures are a stark reminder of the devastating consequences falls can have, not only on the independence and quality of life for these individuals, but also on the healthcare system.

The Stand Strong programme offers a series of gentle, weekly one-hour exercise classes designed for those aged 65 and over, delivered over a 26-week period by the One You Cheshire East service.

Everyone who signs will first attend an initial assessment with a qualified health and wellbeing coach before joining a class, and then work with them to learn exercises that aim to help improve strength, balance and mobility and reduce the risk of trips, slips or falls. All of the exercises are adaptable to match an individual’s physical abilities and circumstances. Most of the exercises can also be done seated if required.

But as well as teaching physical strengthening exercises, those who attend also get to learn about simple measures they can take to reduce the risk of a fall such as removing trip hazards like rugs and wires, installing grab rails in bathrooms, installing non-slip shower or bath mats, wearing appropriate footwear and avoiding going out early on particularly icy days.

The Stand Strong classes are offered in a variety of church halls, community centres and social club locations across the borough to help make it as easy as possible for local residents to attend – and people can use the One You Cheshire East website to find and register to a local class.