31 January 2008

Active lifestyles programme reduces falls

An Active Lifestyles Programme has introduced older people across Armagh and Dungannon to chair-based activity, exercises and information specially designed to reduce their risk of falling.

Helen McLoughlin, falls prevention project facilitator at Mullinure Hospital in Armagh, says that the programme has been a huge success thanks to the generous grant provided by the Big Lottery Fund.

“This is a one year project aimed at engaging older people in the Armagh and Dungannon areas in activities and exercise to improve their balance, strength and flexibility, with the aim of reducing falls. I have delivered over 125 gentle physical activity classes to residents living in socially isolated areas. The programme has also focused on improving access to support services and relevant befriending or other lifestyle and social activities.”

“The project has been very popular within statutory Day Care Centres and local community groups,” adds Helen.

“Many older peoples’ groups have participated including Keady Older and Bolder, Evergreen Club Heritage Centre (Coalisland), Killylea Community Group, Killyman Craft Class (Dungannon), Donaghmore Open Door Club, Fivemiletown Half-Door Club, Mullabrack Luncheon Club, Moy Cosy Club, Benburb Club, Armagh Young at Heart and Galbally Country Club.

“Unfortunately due to the limited funding we were only able to deliver the programme to some of the numerous groups and Nursing Homes that expressed an interest. Nursing Homes have benefited from taking part in Falls Awareness Training sessions for all levels of staff in how to identify each patient’s level of risk of falling.

“The message to older people in the community is to have fun getting active with friends and to stay healthy for a better lifestyle. We hope that each participant will continue the exercises both in their own home and in their groups.”

Members of the project team would also like to thank their key partners including Armagh Rural Transport, OPEN, and Armagh and Dungannon Health Action Zone.