The programme focuses on embedding walking activities with strength and balance (gentle evidence-based movement) initiatives.
Healthcare staff are being supported to develop and embed a whole care home approach which supports behaviour change and improves the culture of physical activity within their home. The achievement of essential outcomes for older adults to live an active life, are focused on integrating evidence-based strength and balance movements into everyday life, contributing to a reduction in falls or repeat falls.
Reducing the risk of falls, or a repeat fall, helps to build confidence, particularly when accessing the outdoors. Our training and resources support healthcare staff to deliver these activities by building them into daily practice and care plans.
Ongoing investment in staff training and resource for the Walking with Strength and Balance initiative continues to build capacity across care homes whilst embedding the initiative to make it sustainable.
Data from care homes across Greater Glasgow and Clyde has, to date, shown positive results:
- Physical, mental, and social health improvements with more residents opting to take part in walking with strength and balance
- Individual resident data indicates improvements in strength and balance (20-week pilot data using set measures, including Berg scale)
- Emerging positive culture of physical activity amongst staff
- Increased staff confidence through training to support residents in physical activities
In practice we can share Irene’s experience which showcases the tangible benefits of strength and balance activity.
In September 2023, Irene had a stroke that resulted in a six-week hospital stay. Upon returning to her care home, she faced significant mobility challenges, struggling to stand up and walk. Recognising these difficulties, Mosswood Care Home partnered with our Active Health and Care team to implement Walking with Strength and Balance. Irene embraced this, attending classes three times a week, enjoying both the physical movement and social interaction.
Alyson Craig, Irene’s daughter, said,
I believe she walks better now than she did before she had her stroke. Thank you for helping her get some independence back.
Irene’s dedication resulted in remarkable progress: she can now stand independently, has better balance, and can walk round the care home unit at a good pace, occasionally even without her walking aid. Impressively, Irene's family reports that her mobility has not only recovered but has surpassed her pre-stroke levels, highlighting the programme's transformative impact.
It is hoped that by raising awareness of the benefits of regular movement, we can not only support rehabilitation and recovery, but actively prevent incidences of falls and injury.
You can learn more about the Walking with Strength and Balance programme here.