Older people from across Mid Sussex gathered at Chequer Mead, East Grinstead on Friday 20 October to learn more about staying fit and well in later life.
The event was organised by the Mid Sussex Wellbeing Team to help local people find the support they need to live a long and happy life.
Over 50 older people took part in free exercise sessions that were specifically tailored to meet the needs of people in later life. Attendees were given the opportunity to try Tai Chi, strength and balance sessions, Zumba Gold or practice relaxation and breathing techniques that help to improve Mindfulness.
Trained health professionals provided free NHS Health Checks to help people spot potential health problems at an early stage. The checks, which took just 30 minutes, included a blood pressure check, a cholesterol measurement, and a BMI (Body Mass Index) reading that is calculated by measuring height and weight. After the health check there was an opportunity to discuss the results with a trained health advisor, who provided personalised advice on how to lower the risk of future problems and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
In total, 34 people had blood pressure checks, which is an excellent early warning system for some serious health conditions. As a result, four people were referred back to their GP for further checks and one was serious enough for an urgent appointment that day.
More than 20 charities, voluntary groups and local organisations were on hand to offer advice and information about social activities, volunteering opportunities, support services and important issues like keeping warm during winter.
“It was great to see so many older people at this event and we had a tremendous amount of positive feedback from the people who attended,” said Councillor Norman Webster, Cabinet Member for Community.
“We are fortunate to have lots of charities and voluntary organisations in Mid Sussex that are working hard to support people in later life but people don’t always realise how much help is out there. Events like these play such an important role, bringing people together, raising awareness of important issues and making a real difference to the lives of others.”
Jean Guppy, an East Grinstead resident who attended the Wellbeing event said:
“Thank you for such a wonderful event. I spoke with so many different local services and the staff have been so friendly and welcoming. I enjoyed the whole day.”
For more information about Wellbeing Services in Mid Sussex please contact the Mid Sussex Wellbeing team on 01444 477191 or email info@midsussexwelbeing.org.uk.
