During a Provider Forum on 3 March 2021 Barnsley Premier Leisure (BPL) presented in conjunction with Bassetlaw Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to raise awareness of virtual exercise classes. The CCG explained they had been tasked with obtaining support for the elderly within Care Homes who were suffering symptoms of Long Covid (currently classified as experiencing post-covid symptoms 12 weeks after having covid). During the process it was agreed the provision should be widened, not only for sufferers of long covid but any individual within a Care Home, especially due to personal trainers being unable to visit care homes currently.
As such BPL asked if anyone would be willing to trial their pre-recorded exercises classes and give feedback to the team on their suitability for care home settings. BPL advised there were a wide variety of classes available, from standing to seated exercises and tai chi to mindfulness. They were also willing to provide live sessions if that was something that homes would like and could also add or adapt content to suit the care homes requirements.
www.ageuk.org.uk reports that regular activity can:
- lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, some cancers, depression and dementia
- moving helps your thinking skills – like problem-solving, decision-making and remembering facts and words
- being active can lessen aches and pains, help you stay steady on your feet and boost your mood
So of course, Farthings jumped at this amazing chance and Charlotte volunteered Farthings to be part of the project. On 9 March 2021 Lynne had a virtual meeting with the CCG and BPL to discuss Farthings needs and wants and to establish a way forward with the project.
On 15 March 2021 the first Armchair Exercise Class was delivered and over 56% of our residents took part. All residents really enjoyed the session which focussed on exercising legs, arms, hands, feet and the body core.
We look forward to seeing how this project will evolve and aid our residents.
