‘Take it steady’ urges new project

Published Thursday 21 April 2016

People over 65 years old, who may be worried about balance or mobility, are being invited to join some special sessions being launched to help them.

A new countywide project called ‘Steady Steps’ is arriving in Harborough district aiming to build strength and stability in older adults who may feel unsteady on their feet.

The project is a partnership between Harborough District Council, Public Health with Leicestershire County Council, and Leicestershire and Rutland Sport.

Sessions, led by Vanessa Freeth a Level 4 qualified instructor in postural stability, start the week beginning 16 May 2016 at:

  • The Training Shed, Market Harborough – Mondays 11am – 12.30pm
  • Broughton Astley Village Hall – Tuesdays 11am – 12.30pm
  • Wycliffe Rooms, Lutterworth – Tuesdays 1.30pm – 3pm

Falls and related injuries are a common and serious problem for older people. In the UK, 30 per cent of people over 65 years old and 50 per cent of people over 80 years old fall at least once a year. Those who fall once are two to three times more likely to fall again within the year.

Falls have a large impact on quality of life as well as physical and mental health, and for those over 75 years old, falls are also the most common cause of death from injury.

Booking is essential and small charges apply. Refreshments will be provided.

To book, or for more information, email Vanessa Freeth at vanessa_freeth@hotmail.com  or call her on 07764 968544.

View a poster about ‘Steady Steps’ here