Stronger for Longer! Charity launches membership club to combat rising frailty levels

Age UK Norwich is urging everyone over 50 to invest in their health with a simple pay-as-you-go scheme, bringing expert support straight to your home.

The launch coincides with Age UK’s national ‘Act Now, Age Better’ campaign, which is gathering momentum across the UK and exposing a stark truth: one in six deaths is linked to physical inactivity.

Dan Skipper, Chief Executive Officer at Age UK Norwich said “There are estimated to be 115,000 people in Norfolk living with frailty, this should be the ‘f-word’ on everyone’s lips, as getting older and getting frailer are not the same thing. We can’t fight ageing, but we can fight frailty, as we want people aged 50+ to be aware and understand what actions they can take.”

Public Health England data reports that moderate physical activity can reduce the risk of dementia by 30%, hip fractures by 68%, cardiovascular disease by 35%, and type 2 diabetes by 40%.

“Our Coaches are there for you, whatever your goals” said Kelly Parkin, Age UK Norwich’s Health Specialist. “We get to know people and the exercises that work for them. We start slowly and help people build confidence, and we discuss lots of factors linked to frailty, such as hydration, diet and the home environment.”  

James, 75, who lives with Parkinson’s, explained how he has benefited. “Something as simple as standing up to have a shave used to be a real struggle, but now I can manage. I’m relying less on my wife, and I have far more confidence. I’m so grateful for the difference it’s made.”

Health Coaching sessions are priced at £25 for a 60-minute appointment, offering affordable, personalised support. Online sessions are also available.

This scheme is also open to local organisations who can host a ‘Frailty Screening Session’ where Health Coaches will use Gaitsmart, a biotech tool, to test walking gait and help people understand what they can do to improve their walking stability.

“We would like to see gait screening a common sight in our communities and for most people, our sessions will be the first time anyone has discussed their walking ability or confidence. At a recent screening, 54 people had their gait tested. The average age was 68, but we had people into their 90s. Sixteen people of all ages achieved a perfect score, challenging the idea that age equals frailty!”

To book a 1-1 Health Coaching session or a Frailty Screening Session, call 01603 496333 or email enquiries@ageuknorwich.org.uk