Strength and Balance

Strength and Balance programme is an evidence based (OTAGO) 14-week exercise programme, funded by Sunderland City Council for people who live in Sunderland.

Referral criteria: 

• Motivated to improve and committed to attend a 14-week exercise class in a group setting alongside weekly home exercises.
• Aged 50+ and live in Sunderland.
• History of falls or near misses, fear of falling or reduced confidence, identified as having strength and balance deficits. 
• Able to walk independently or with a walking aid (3 or 4 wheeled walker / stick)
• Able to sit to stand from a chair using arms independently. 
• Able to stand for several minutes at a time, with or without support (such as holding onto a chair, if required)
• Medically stable and in control of any long-term conditions they may have.

Exclusion criteria:

• Moderate / severe aortic stenosis
• AAA Inoperable
• Recent injurious fall without medical examination
• Uncontrolled angina
• Resting SBP > 180mmHg or resting DBP >100mmHg
• Uncontrolled postural hypotension or Symptomatic drop in BP during exercise
• Tachycardia > 100bpm
• Acute systemic illness
• Unstable or acute heart failure 
• Advanced Parkinson’s disease
• Visual or vestibular disturbances 
• Cognitive impairment  

• info@foundationoflight.co.uk
• 0191 563 4777