A Black Country Care Home has transformed residents' mobility and safety with the introduction of Tai Chi classes.
Since the classes began in May, staff at Oriel Care Home in Stourbridge have recorded a 50% reduction in falls as well as improvements in people's confidence and sense of wellbeing.
The Home's Activities Co-ordinator, Gary Fowkes, introduced the 45 minute classes which are held twice weekly to support the residents' balance and movement. The classes also cover yoga, breathing and relaxation techniques.
Gary said, "Many of our residents struggle with their mobility and we know, as people get older, they are more likely to have falls and trips due to this. The gentle, yet effective practices of Tai Chi have had a positive impact on our residents' strength and confidence. I used to work on the stroke unit at the Rowley Regis Hospital and the physiotherapists showed me how to support people with limited movement and how to help them improve their strength. I loved it so much that I decided to train in it so that I could introduce Tai Chi to the residents here at the home - I'm pleased to say nearly all the residents come to the classes."
Leonard Passey (88) has had a few falls over the past few years due to poor balance and a deterioration in his mobility.
He said, "I definitely feel safer when I walk thanks to the benefits of these Tai Chi classes."
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