Image above - Marlene returning to outdoor walking after strength and balance support
The week reminds people to take small, practical steps like making homes safer, keeping active, and asking for advice when needed. These changes can help older people stay independent and avoid the physical, emotional, and social impact of falling.
This year’s theme is “From Awareness to Action.” It highlights that falls are not just a normal part of ageing. Most falls can be prevented, and older people can take steps to reduce their risk. Staying active and keeping fit are key ways to reduce the risk of falls.
The need for action is becoming more urgent. Globally, the number of people aged over 65 is expected to double by 2030, and on average, one fifth of people’s lives are spent in poor health. Health systems are already under pressure and not prepared for the impact of larger, ageing populations. Preventative solutions are vital to help people live healthier, more independent lives. This is especially important in Stockport, which has one of the oldest populations in Greater Manchester.
Local event
The Stockport Age UK Hub in Edgeley is hosting a Falls Prevention Awareess event on Thursday 18th September 12-2pm. They will be joined by other organisations that specilaise in strength and conditioning work and will beoffering support and activities to help people feel more confident on their feet.
Marlene’s story
Marlene, who lives in Stockport with several long-term health conditions, first came along to an Age UK Stockport coffee morning in spring 2023. With encouragement, she joined some outdoor walks, but balance problems made uneven ground difficult.
She didn’t want to give up, so she joined the Indoor Confidence Walk at Life Leisure Brinnington Park. This is run by Age UK Stockport and Life Leisure, and gives people a safe place to build strength and balance at their own pace.
In spring 2025, a new Outdoor Confidence Walk started at Woodbank Park in Offerton. Marlene has been going since the first session and now feels confident walking outdoors again. She said:
“I never thought I’d get back to enjoying walks outside, but the support and encouragement I’ve had has made such a difference. I feel safer, stronger, and more confident with every step,” says Marlene.
Marlene's story shows how the right support can help people enjoy being active again.
Stay Steady programme
Another option in Stockport is Stay Steady, a six-month falls prevention exercise programme run by Life Leisure with Public Health Stockport. The classes use simple but effective exercises to improve balance and strengthen legs, helping people stay steady on their feet.
One participant said:“It definitely improves the quality of my life and I couldn’t get about without exercises of that nature.”
KOKU a balance and strength programme
Digital support also has a role to play. KOKU is an award-winning programme that provides personalised strength and balance exercises to prevent decline and frailty. It is NHS-approved and gives older people access to progressive, proven exercises that can be used at home or in group settings.
A care home manager said: “Since using KOKU with our residents there has been a real improvement in their wellbeing, and it has contributed to a reduction in recorded falls.”
For more information and local support to help you and your loved ones stay more active and prevent falls visit Healthy Stockport