22 February 2010
Step Up! Free exercise classes for older people
Older people with dementia in Shropshire are being encouraged to take up free exercise sessions in a bid to improve their balance and strength.
The exercise classes take place every Wednesday from 10.15am to 11.15am at Accord Housing Association’s Millbrook Day Centre in Ironbridge, Telford.
The classes, led by NHS Telford and Wrekin, are purposely designed to improve balance, increase muscle, ligament and bone strength and aid general well-being.
They are the first falls prevention classes specifically for people with dementia in the Telford and Wrekin borough.
A ‘Carer’s Café’ is held after each class to give carers the chance to socialise over a cup of coffee and slice of cake and seek advice and assistance about health issues and care.
Angela Causton, Health and Wellbeing Manager for Accord, said: “These exercise classes are really beneficial to older people’s health - from helping to strengthen muscles and bones to aiding a restful night’s sleep.
“The classes are friendly and welcoming and everyone is encouraged to go at their own pace - so why not come along and give it a go!”
The classes are led by Leighmarie Denley a highly qualified instructor in the PCT’s Exercise for All team, who won the ‘Chairs Award’ for outstanding individual achievement at last year’s NHS awards.
Transport to the classes can be arranged on request. If you would like to attend the classes or for more information about them call Millbrook Day Centre on 01952 433 730.