Our weekly Stepping On Social sessions are about more than just staying active. They’re about creating space for wellbeing, connection, and care. That’s why we offer weekly health checks during our chair-supported exercise sessions—and why we’ve recently invested in advanced tools to help our community keep a closer eye on their health.
The Wake-Up Call That Started It All
Our decision to begin offering blood pressure monitoring came after a much-loved group member experienced a bleed on the brain. After her recovery, she was told that regular blood pressure checks might have spotted a rise in readings earlier, potentially helping to prevent the incident altogether. This sobering moment became the catalyst for investing in health-monitoring equipment.
Since then, our friendly sessions have included discreet, voluntary checks using a Withings blood pressure monitor with ECG and blood oxygen tracking, and more recently, a Withings Body Scan smart scale. This latest addition offers a comprehensive overview of body composition, heart rhythm (including atrial fibrillation detection), and even nerve health.
Small Checks, Big Impact
It’s easy to overlook blood pressure or heart rhythm—especially if you feel well—but we’ve already seen how vital these checks can be. One member, after having her blood pressure checked at our session, noticed an unusually high pulse. This led to a follow-up with her GP and an eventual diagnosis of Atrial Fibrillation (AF). She’s now receiving the right treatment thanks to that early alert.
Another group member had consistently high blood pressure readings during our sessions and was encouraged to visit their GP. They were subsequently prescribed medication to help lower their blood pressure and reduce their risk of serious complications.
Several others have now taken their personal health readings, recorded through our equipment, to their GP surgeries—where conversations around prevention, prescriptions, and next steps have been made possible.
Introducing Our Stepping On Social Programme
The weekly health checks happen as part of our Stepping On Social programme—a chair-supported exercise class designed to help older adults and those with long-term conditions stay strong, steady, and socially connected. Sessions include gentle movement, a short guided meditation for mindfulness and relaxation, and always time for tea, biscuits, and a good natter afterwards.
Why This Matters
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it rarely causes symptoms until it becomes serious. Atrial fibrillation is also notoriously easy to miss without proper checks. These simple, regular screenings can help people stay ahead of problems and seek help before things escalate.
We’re proud that our community-focused approach is already having a positive impact—and we’ll keep doing everything we can to support the health and wellbeing of our members.
Come Along
If you want to take some positive steps for your health, you’re warmly invited to join us. The sessions are relaxed, welcoming, and there’s never any pressure—just support, smiles, and a safe space to move and connect.
