Caring staff at Mansfield Community Hospital promoted the importance of active aging to mark Older People’s Day.

Coinciding with the UN International Day of Older Persons, Older People’s Day was designed to celebrate the contribution of older people in society. Physiotherapists, occupational therapists and nurses held afternoon events, including exercise classes, crafts, afternoon tea and a quiz on Oakham and Lindhurst wards for inpatients and previous patients.

Fran Platts, Therapy Operational Manager for Community Services at Sherwood Forest Hospitals, said: “People are living longer and 23% of the UK will be aged 65 and over by 2035. Therapists play a major role in keeping people active and independent as they get older, and encourage a proactive approach to aging and self-care to minimise complications, for example falls, joint stiffness, memory loss and anxieties.

“There are a number of simple steps that everyone can take to reduce their risk of falls, such as doing basic exercises, keeping active, wearing appropriate footwear and environmental awareness. It is never too early to start and prevention is possible; falls are not an inevitable part of ageing.”

Attendees at the event were also given a new ‘Get up and Go’ booklet, which is produced by Saga in association with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and Public Health England. This gives important advice on how older people can fall-proof their home and stay safe whilst out in their local community, plus many exercise tips.

Fran added: “It’s never too late to increase muscle strength, maintain bone density and improve balance. Taking steps now to achieve these goals can help prevent aches and pains, increase energy levels and reduce anxieties around falling. This can also help with better managing conditions like heart disease, some cancers, type 2 diabetes, stroke and mental illness.

“We were delighted to support Older People’s Day. Each individual has an important role to play in helping themselves live longer and live well and we hope that the day has helped to raise awareness about healthy aging.”