Virtual reality used to reduce the risk of falls

Virtual reality equipment has enabled three Macclesfield locals to graduate from a specialist falls prevention course with flying colours.

The trio of Experience Day clients from Belong Macclesfield are the first cohort to complete a 12 session falls prevention course, aimed at reducing the risk of falls for older people.

Using state-of-the-art Silverfit virtual reality exercise equipment, the course involves cognitive games aimed at challenging balance, coordination and strength and takes place in Belong Macclefield’s exercise studio, where a fitness instructor uses the machinery’s data to develop personalised exercise programmes to enhance the wellbeing of each participant.

Belong Macclesfield Lead Exercise Instructor, Barbara Tait, said: “We are thrilled that the first group of participants has passed our falls prevention course. The Silverfit equipment is specially designed for use by older people and has been proven to have both cognitive and physical benefits exceeding those of ordinary exercise machines as it increases participant motivation.

“The system has enabled us to pinpoint areas of weakness in our customers, to help us to focus on ways in which we can improve their individual movement, strength and balance. I look forward to continuing the sessions in upcoming weeks and helping more course participants to enhance their wellbeing.”

Belong Macclesfield has a longstanding specialist exercise service, which is highly regarded by health professionals. It recorded evidence of positive impact on participants when it was awarded level 2 Nesta Evidence of Change in research carried out by the National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine on behalf of Public Health England in 2015. It also won the prestigious Excellence in Ageing Services award from the International Association of Homes and Services for the Ageing (IAHSA) in 2013.