Celebrating International Day of Older Persons 2025: The Impact of Strength & Balance Classes

Each year, International Day of Older Persons gives us a chance to reflect on the invaluable contributions of older adults in our communities and the importance of supporting them to live well, independently, and with confidence. At Healthbox, we see first-hand the difference that targeted health and wellbeing programmes can make, and nowhere is that more evident than in our Strength & Balance classes.

Earlier this year, a 77-year-old lady was referred to Healthbox after experiencing frequent falls and trips. These setbacks had significantly reduced her confidence and her ability to carry out everyday activities, leaving her feeling isolated and worried about leaving her home. She was also on the waiting list for a hip replacement and was advised by her GP to attend our Strength & Balance classes to build muscle strength and improve her recovery prospects after surgery.

Since joining the classes on a weekly basis, she noticed a remarkable transformation. Her balance and strength improved, her walking technique became steadier, and most importantly, she regained her confidence. By the time her hip replacement came around, she was better prepared and after returning to the sessions post-surgery, she found herself able to walk further, shop independently, and take part in social activities with friends and family again.

She describes the sessions as not only physically beneficial but also as a safe and supportive community. With guidance from the instructor and encouragement from her peers, she has put her learning into practice in everyday life. She hasn’t had a single fall since starting the programme and has even noticed improvements in other areas of her health, such as reduced shoulder pain. Perhaps just as importantly, she says that the group environment motivates her further, especially when she sees new participants, often with limited mobility making progress week by week.

Her story is one of many that highlight the lasting impact of our Strength & Balance classes. They are more than just exercise sessions, they help older adults stay active, independent, and socially connected.

On this International Day of Older Persons, we celebrate the resilience and determination of people like her and renew our commitment to providing programmes that enable older adults across our communities to thrive.