Motion: The Fit for Life Programme

The Fit for Life Programme

Lodged by Jim Eadie Standard Motion 26 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament celebrates the work of the Fit for Life programme, which it considers an innovative initiative run by the physiotherapist, Jackie Hodge, and a team of volunteers; understands that it aims to bridge the gap between NHS mental health services and mainstream community exercise groups by using a circuit of exercises specifically chosen to develop strength and improve balance, and that, through this, the programme helps older people who have dementia or who are experiencing depression or anxiety build their self-confidence and continue to participate in their community by staying active; believes that many older people feel apprehensive about leaving their home because of concerns, such as the fear of falling, and these can lead to feelings of isolation and, in turn, a deterioration in their mental health; congratulates Jackie and her team on the programme's success, with approximately 73% of participants stating that the classes have improved their balance and 90% requesting a referral to further classes after completing it; applauds them on Fit for Life receiving the Mental Welfare Commission for Scotland's Person-centred/Recovery Approaches to Long-term Care and Support award earlier in 2015, and wishes the staff at the programme every success in continuing what it considers their important work in helping older people with mental health problems to be active in their communities.

Supporters (26)