Community exercise programme for maintaining mobility and independence in later life launched
- The Health Improvement Commission is launching REACT, a year-long group exercise programme in Guernsey.
- The programme is free and designed for adults aged 65 and over who are experiencing mobility challenges.
- REACT combines strength, balance, mobility exercises, and group sessions focused on healthy ageing.
- The initiative has proven effective in preventing mobility decline and is supported by funding from the Guernsey Community Foundation.
- Applications for the first programme, starting in February 2026, are now open.
The Health Improvement Commission for Guernsey and Alderney has announced the launch of REACT (REtirement in ACTion), a new community exercise programme aimed at helping older adults improve their mobility and maintain independence.
The programme is designed specifically for individuals aged 65 and over who may be facing difficulties in everyday tasks such as getting out of a chair or climbing stairs.
Sam Green, Adult Physical Activity Officer at the Health Improvement Commission, said: “We know that physical activity is one of the most powerful tools we have to support healthy ageing.”
The REACT programme provides a comprehensive approach, combining strength, balance, and mobility exercises alongside group education focused on healthy ageing.
It aims to foster a supportive environment where participants can connect with others while working to enhance their confidence and motivation to remain active.
Developed in collaboration with leading UK universities and community partners, REACT has been shown to deliver significant health benefits in a cost-effective manner.
These benefits include preventing mobility decline and improving physical function.
The programme is being introduced in Guernsey through the support of the Guernsey Community Foundation, which funds various community initiatives.
Afroditi Stathi, Professor of Physical Activity and Community Health at the University of Birmingham and the REACT Chief Investigator, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to see REACT’s strong expansion journey now reaching Guernsey.”
The REACT programme lasts for 12 months, featuring weekly exercise sessions that commence twice a week for the first three months, transitioning to once a week thereafter. Additionally, sessions will include social time and discussions related to healthy ageing, which encourages participants to develop healthy habits and friendships that persist beyond the programme duration.
Applications for the initial REACT programme, which is set to commence in February 2026, are now open.
The programme is primarily targeted at older adults facing challenges in daily activities and is not intended for those who are already very active or in need of intensive rehabilitation. Interested individuals are invited to check their eligibility and apply online at the Health Improvement Commission’s website.
Healthcare professionals may also use the same application form to refer patients who could benefit from this initiative.
To find out more, check your eligibility, or apply online, visit: https://healthimprovement.gg/services/be-active/react-retirement-action.
Healthcare professionals can also refer patients using the same application form.
To read evidence of the programme's impact, visit here.
Comments ()