About the service
The free 12-week course of balance and strengthening group exercise classes helps older adults at risk of falling improve balance and strength and reduce the risk of a fall.
Set up by our Community Rehabilitation Team, at several East Kent locations, the classes support people to stay active and independent for longer.
Who the service is for?
Do you feel unsteady on your feet?
Do you worry that your balance isn’t as good as it used to be?
Maybe you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis?
Perhaps you have a fear of falling?
Have you already had a slip, trip or fall or perhaps a near-miss?
- Referrals are generally accepted for anyone over the age of 65 (or those younger than 65 where they have age-related falls issues).
- If you live in East Kent you can be referred by healthcare professionals, or self-refer to take part in these exercise classes.
- You don't necessarily need to have concerns about falling - you may have osteoporosis or balance or mobility issues.
To qualify for our classes you should be able to:
- Arrange transport to the class venue;
- Follow instructions;
- Stand unaided for at least two minutes, with or without an aid;
- Stand from a chair that has no arms;
- Mobilise independently, with or without a walking aid;
- Be motivated to take part in weekly classes for a minimum of 12 weeks;
- Carry out gentle exercise in a class setting for 60 minutes each week.
Aims of the group exercise classes
- Build on your muscle strength, mobility and balance to improve daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs and going out;
- Provide advice and encouragement to help reduce your risk of falling;
- Actively involve you and your family and/or carers in your exercise programme;
- Work with partner healthcare providers to support rehabilitation in your community;
- Help you live independently.
What happens during the course?
Each person is assessed before starting to make sure the classes are appropriate for individual needs and to consider potential risks.
You must be medically fit to attend the group or have the consent of your GP to exercise.
An initial assessment of your needs will be completed via a telephone triage appointment; Further assessment will be carried out at a visit to the exercise class before starting the course.
We will discuss assessments with you and adapt your programme exercises if needed.
The course is made-up of tailored group exercises designed to reduce the risk of falling and improve balance and strength.
Exercises will be performed while standing and involve moving around the room; Every participant is encouraged to go at their own pace.
Most group members live independently and can get around adequately but are starting to feel unsteady at times.
During the course we will provide talks and leaflets about:
- How to cope if you have a fall;
- How to get up following a fall;
- Footwear and foot care;
- Medication
- Further information on resources available in your community.
Monitoring your progress
At the beginning of the course, and at various points along the way, we monitor your progress to show you, and us, just how far you have come.
A course leader will adjust your exercises as necessary during every stage of the course.
Who will be involved in your care?
As our Community Rehabilitation Team is multi-disciplinary, the course leaders are able to liaise with other professionals in the team (such as physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists) when required.
We can also refer and/or signpost you to external agencies such as social services, your GP, voluntary services to support your needs.
Contact us
How do I refer to this service?
Anyone can refer by contacting:
East Kent Local Referral Unit
0300 123 0915
For general enquiries please get in touch with our team:
East Kent Community Rehabilitation Team
0300 7900 389
Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm
You can also visit our Community Rehabilitation Team service page for further information.