Support an older relative or friend and move more together with Age UK’s free online seated exercise classes
Lockdown has been a difficult time for some as daily life has had to change meaning some habits will have been lost or made harder to complete. As we have started to see restrictions lift, many people are recognising the health benefits that moving more can bring, and it is all about finding something that works for you. Equally, you may have concerns about an older relative or friend that needs some motivation to move more post lockdown, you can support them to get active by taking part in Age UK’s online exercise classes together.
Age UK North, South and West Dorset are offering gentle online seated exercise classes suitable for anyone who can move around independently, with or without aids, it is also suitable for anyone with limited mobility. Approval is needed from a GP to take part. Family members and friends are welcomed and encouraged to support an older relative by completing the class with them.
The sessions are run by a qualified tutor with an additional volunteer in attendance to offer support and guidance throughout the session. Classes, which run Monday-Friday at 10:30am from Thursday 20th August, are one hour long, with an introduction at the beginning and a break in the middle. They take place online so access to a laptop, tablet or smart phone is required. Age UK North, South & West Dorset are also able to assist in setting up IT for a fee.
Dave Thorp, CEO of Age UK North, South & West Dorset said: “We are delighted to be supported by Active Dorset to encourage older people to get moving, have fun and improve their health and wellbeing.
“Be a supporter for your parents and grandparents and move more together! To register your place contact Age UK North, South, West Dorset.”
These online classes have been funded by Active Dorset, who were awarded £50,000 of National Lottery funding from Sport England's Tackling Inequalities Fund. This fund aims to tackle inequalities in activity levels to reach those most in need as a result of the impact of COVID-19.
Also, with support from Active Dorset, the funding has enabled Age UK North, South and West Dorset to adopt a 'moving more guidance' script to support staff and volunteers to have conversation about physical activity levels and signpost effectively.
Charlie Coward, Active Dorset Deputy Chief Executive commented; “We are delighted to be able to support Age UK North, South and West Dorset with this funding. Covid-19 has been a difficult period for many and we hope these classes and physical activity guidance will enable members of the Dorset community to keep moving, which is so important for both our physical and mental wellbeing.”
Active Dorset and Age UK North, South and West Dorset would love to hear from you if you are interested in supporting a relative or friend by attending these sessions together. If you would be happy to share your journey to inspire others, please get in touch; info@activedorset.org
To book classes and find out more please contact Age UK North, South & West Dorset:
T 01305 269444 | E: wellbeingservices@ageuknswd.org.uk
