APPHLE HIT work leads to over 8,000 older people becoming more active

Our Active Older People (APPHLE) HIT and Active Ageing Bristol (AAB) are delivering the basis for a ‘prevention at scale’ programme through initiatives that help older people to be less isolated and to increase physical strength and mobility through combined fitness and social activities.

For the REACT study, which was led by the HIT, 193 retired Bristolians completed a yearlong activity programme with a strong social element.

The study inspired Public Health Bristol’s ‘Staying Steady’ initiative, which to date has helped a further 221 older people improve their strength and balance.

The Clinical Commissioning Group is writing a business case to build REACT into its frailty care pathway.

Together with the HIT, AAB now co-ordinates 19 ‘Age Friendly Activity Hubs’ across Bristol, making physical activity more accessible and attractive to people aged 55+.

Two years ago, AAB also began managing Walk Fest, one of the UK’s largest urban walking festivals. Participation has increased five-fold, with over 7,800 people taking part in 2019 – two-thirds of whom said that they intend to increase their levels of walking as a result.