Action for Elders

Action for Elders say:

The vision for Action for Elders Trust is a world where older people can live with as much independence and happiness as possible. We deliver this through our flagship programme, Balanced Lives, a mix of Tai Chi-based movements and exercises with social activity, based around the needs and interests of older people, and facilitated through weekly sessions.

In Clifton, York, Purey Cust is contributing towards the costs of a weekly Balanced Lives group held at St Luke’s Parish Church. The weekly sessions are part of a vibrant Community Hub, ‘Joyful Connections’, which has been created by volunteers and which also includes advice sessions run by Citizens’ Advice.

In the words of one group member;

It is a pleasure to attend such a non-judgemental group. A community group obviously attracts a large number of people with varied ages and abilities, but the facilitator offers appropriate, sympathetic and enthusiastic support and I think we all leave with a feeling of achievement and belonging.

Our evaluation shows that, with the support of Purey Cust, we are helping to improve the physical, mental and social wellbeing of older people; our group participants report:

• Feeling physically stronger and more mobile
• Sleeping better
• Having better balance
• Feeling more relaxed
• Feeling less anxious and depressed
• Having better social relationships
• Having a more fulfilling and meaningful life.