New Health Coaching programme makes locals healthier and happier in later life
Published on 12 July 2023 02:44 PM
Recent results from a new Health Coaching programme have shown it is making local people healthier, happier and more confident. The Age Healthy Norwich initiative, launched last year and run by Age UK Norwich in collaboration with One Norwich Practices, has had a positive impact on people’s life satisfaction as well as on practical markers like activity levels, blood pressure, weight and sleep.
Age Healthy Norwich works with people aged between 50 - 65 who have risk factors such as high blood pressure, asthma/COPD, diabetes or mobility issues. It offers free, one-to-one personalised weekly coaching for six months, followed by a six month self-care phase where participants are supported to access a wide range of clubs and activities. Goals can be around physical health, mobility, activity, weight loss and/or mental health and wellbeing.
Initial results have shown:
- 84% felt their health has improved
- 92% of participants felt more confident
- 53% felt less lonely
- 35% of people have moved from no activity to at least one self-motivated session
- 55% felt more able to do things they previously enjoyed
- Blood pressure reduced by 11 - 12%
- 57% connected to community groups or clubs such as golf, bowling, gyms, walking football and mental health services
By improving lifestyles, reducing blood pressure and increasing mobility Heath Coaching aims to help prevent illness and injury, enabling a healthier population and reducing pressure on local health services.
Dan Skipper, CEO at Age UK Norwich said “Sometimes people need a bit of support to become healthier and our one-to-one personalised coaching is making a big impact in a relatively short space of time. Not only is it helping people feel happier and more confident, but it’s also bringing down blood pressure, which will have a knock-on effect, reducing the likelihood of having a heart attack or stroke.
“Our team of health coaches visit people at home or in the community and are friendly and approachable, making individual plans as fun and sustainable as possible so participants can make the changes and stick to them. Getting active and socially connected in your 50s and 60s tees you up for a healthier, happier later life, which is what we want for everyone in Norwich. If you’re interested in finding out more, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”
Comments from participants:
“My overall fitness has improved and I feel more positive. My blood pressure has reduced, my stamina and balance is better and I’ve lost 12lbs meaning I’ve been able to reduce my medication.”
“I feel very honoured I’ve been chosen to take part in this and that someone is looking after me. I’m used to looking after other people. This is a real eye opener.”
Age Healthy Norwich Coaching has been funded by the NHS Charities Trust and One Norwich Practices. call 01603 496 333 or email community.support@ageuknorwich.org.uk