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First-ever falls awareness course is a success

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The first-ever falls awareness courses run by Arun District Council’s Wellbeing Team have been successful.

Falls prevention gives participants advice on reducing the risk of falls both in the home and out in the community in an informative workshop. This is followed by eight weeks of Tai Chi sessions specifically designed to improve balance and coordination.

Tom Howell, Arun Wellbeing Active Coordinator, said: “The falls awareness course has gone really well and has been met with positive comments and reviews from participants as well as support from local GP surgeries and community groups.

“Falls are not an inevitable consequence of ageing and many can be prevented with small changes to lifestyle and home environment. Changing from slip-on mules to indoor shoes or well-fitting slippers with backs is just one example of a simple change people can make to reduce risks.

“Exercise and remaining active is also a key element to the course, exercises shown are transferrable and something the participants can replicate at home to strengthen their balance to help prevent falls from occurring.”

Twenty people attended the sessions in Angmering and Bersted, aged between 65 to 91.

Councillor Paul Wotherspoon, Arun District Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “Taking a few simple steps such as making sure gardening tools are tidied away after use can prevent a fall which could be serious.

“This innovative course has given participants the guidance they need to prevent a potential fall from happening as well as helping to boost confidence.

“If you haven’t already booked on this course don’t worry because Arun Wellbeing is considering running more sessions in other parts of the district in the New Year. Please check the website for more information.”

For more information please call 01903 737945 or email Tom.Howell@arun.gov.uk.