Invicta Telecare help older people to take active measures » Housing » 24dash.com

Residents at Frome Court in Tonbridge are taking active measures to stay on their feet to mark National Falls Awareness Day by taking part in a range of exercises specifically designed for older people.

Falls represent the most frequent and serious type of accident in the over 65’s age group, with 75% of deaths resulting from falls happening in the home. They can have devastating effects on confidence, leaving over 78,000 afraid to leave the house last year alone.

People aged up to 96 years who live at Frome Court and in the surrounding local area attend the exercise class. The class focuses on the body’s more vulnerable parts and concentrates on improving flexibility, balance, co-ordination - key to maintaining a healthy body and reducing the risk of falls.

Part of Circle Anglia, Invicta Telecare provides the support service to 10 sheltered schemes, including Frome Court, and 1 extra care scheme owned by group partner Russet Homes, serving over 300 households across Tonbridge and Malling.

Sherrie Macklin, Invicta Telecare’s scheme manager at Frome Court, and instructor of the class, said, “Improving peoples life chances by helping them to live safely and independently is at the heart of everything we do. At Frome Court, we believe that keeping fit and healthy is crucial to leading an active and independent lifestyle.”

All too often falls are accepted as an inevitable part of ageing, one fall can have a disturbing effect on an older person’s life and long-term mobility.

Sherrie continued, “Whilst the class is made to be fun and enjoyable it also delivers important messages in safety. I teach what to do if they have a fall or the best way to get out of trouble if they have an accident when they are alone. It’s a great way to keep flexible and active whilst having a great time and meeting others.”