Staying Steady Falls Prevention Workshop

Staying Steady – Strength, Balance and Confidence for Everyday Life

Getting older is a privilege. Being able to enjoy it matters.

Have you noticed yourself holding onto the banister a little more tightly, feeling less confident on uneven ground or thinking twice before doing something you used to take for granted?

The good news is that there are plenty of practical things you can do to help yourself feel stronger, steadier and more confident.

Staying Steady is a friendly, practical two-hour workshop designed to help older adults maintain their independence and continue doing the things they enjoy.

It's about much more than preventing falls. It's about having the confidence to get out and about, enjoy the garden, visit friends and manage everyday activities without worrying about your balance.

What will we cover?

Understanding your balance

We'll look at some of the common reasons why balance can change as we get older, including strength, mobility, vision and medication, and what you can do to help.

Strength and balance exercises

We'll practise six simple exercises to improve strength, stability and balance. They're designed to be continued at home without specialist equipment, and everyone can work at their own pace.

Making everyday life safer

We'll discuss practical changes around the home, suitable footwear, staying hydrated and other small habits that can make a difference.

What to do if you fall

Nobody likes to think about falling, but having a plan can make a big difference. We'll talk about what to do if you find yourself on the floor, when it's safe to try getting up and how to get help if needed.

Do I need to be fit to attend?

Absolutely not!

This isn't a fitness test. The workshop is suitable for older adults with a range of abilities, including those who use walking aids or have concerns about their balance.

Exercises can be adapted, and you're welcome to sit down, ask questions and take things at your own pace.

What will I take away?

You'll leave with practical advice, six exercises to practise at home, a better understanding of your balance and a copy of the *Get Up & Go* booklet.

Most importantly, I hope you'll leave feeling more confident about what you **can** do, rather than worrying about what you can't.

What have previous participants said?

"Very useful and well put together, thank you for the information and reassurance."

"Clear guidance and engaging with questions and answers."

## About the workshop

The workshops are delivered by Helen from Whole Life Fitness, who specialises in helping older adults improve their strength, balance and confidence.

They are **free to attend**, funded by Chichester Wellbeing, and last approximately two hours.

You don't need to have experienced a fall to benefit. Whether you're beginning to feel less steady or simply want to stay active and independent, you're very welcome.

Because the aim isn't just to avoid falling. It's to keep doing the things that make life enjoyable.