Swindon stroke survivor regains balance to complete parkrun

Peter Barlow, a former soldier and parachute instructor, suffered a severe stroke three years ago, which affected his speech, movement, and balance.

However, with the help of the community stroke team, he is now working on improving his coordination and stability through a programme aimed at enhancing mobility and reducing the risk of falls.

Senior Games Project 2024 at Ladymead Care Home, Wroughton (Image: Swindon Borough Council) Mr Barlow has been taking part in the 'Love to Move' exercises, part of the Senior Games Project, with his wife Sylvia.

The project, funded and organised by Swindon Borough Council’s Public Health department, has supported more than 90 residents across nine care homes this year.

The exercises include foam javelin, dancing, and tin-can bowling, all designed to improve mobility and reduce the risk of slips and falls.

Mr Barlow said: "I feel more stable on my feet due to the dancing.

Senior Games Project 2024 at Ladymead Care Home, Wroughton (Image: Swindon Borough Council) "I’d encourage anyone to give it a try – it’s great for my mental and physical health.

"Dancing has helped me join up the connections in my brain, as I’m coordinating what I’m doing and my partner’s next moves.

"At first it was a challenge and I was wobbly even walking, but it’s made a real difference to how steady on my feet I feel.

"We also enjoy the social side and dancing with others."

He also completed the Seven Fields Park Run on September 21, walking the course in one hour and 18 minutes.

Senior Games Project 2024 at Ladymead Care Home, Wroughton (Image: Swindon Borough Council) The Senior Games programme is open to all care home residents, including those living with dementia.

Participants will be assessed for their physical fitness and mobility over 12 weeks, with the aim of improving their health and wellbeing to ultimately reduce falls.

Councillor Ray Ballman, cabinet member for adult social care at Swindon Borough Council, said: "As more people live longer across the borough, we’re committed to ensuring that our residents maintain their own mobility as much as possible.

Senior Games Project 2024 at Orchard Care Home, Wroughton (Image: Swindon Borough Council) "Doing so will help reduce the risk of falls and give them the best chance of remaining independent.

"As part of our commitment to building a fairer Swindon, we’re proud to support collaborative projects across our community such as the Senior Games which is making a real difference to residents in local care homes."

He encouraged anyone concerned about themselves or a loved one to visit the 'Steady On Your Feet' website, which can provide a personalised action plan.