Older residents across Trafford are being encouraged to take on the Super Six challenge this Falls Prevention Week by spending just a few minutes each day improving their strength, balance and confidence.
Falls Prevention Awareness Week (21 to 25 September) is a national campaign that highlights that falls are not an inevitable part of ageing and encourages older people to take practical steps to stay active, independent and well.
To support the campaign, Trafford Council is promoting the NHS Super Six exercises, a series of six simple movements that can be done at home, require no specialist equipment and take only a few minutes a day.
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and loss of independence among older people, but regular strength and balance exercises can significantly reduce the risk.
Residents are being encouraged to complete the exercises each day during the week and share them with friends, neighbours and family members.
Cllr Jane Slater, Trafford Council's Executive Member for Healthy and Independent Lives, said:
"Falls are often seen as a normal part of getting older, but there is a lot people can do to reduce their risk. Simple strength and balance exercises can help residents maintain their confidence, mobility and independence.
"Falls Prevention Week is a great opportunity to build healthy habits. Just a few minutes of activity each day can make a real difference. Trafford is fortunate to have a wide range of activities, classes and support available for older residents, making it easier to stay active, improve wellbeing and remain independent for longer. I would encourage people to find out what's available and get involved."
Organisations across Trafford offer exercise classes, walking groups, physical activity referral programmes and adapted activities designed for older adults and people living with long-term health conditions. The Trafford Moving Annual Report highlights opportunities ranging from specialist exercise classes and NHS rehabilitation programmes to activities such as Walking Cricket at the George Carnall Hub, helping residents stay active while building friendships and social connections.
Age UK Salford and Trafford offer a dedicated Falls Prevention Service for Trafford residents who have fallen or may be at risk of falls. The service provides assessment-based support, including a 16-week programme of postural stability and strength and balance exercises alongside information and advice to help people stay safe and active.
As part of Falls Prevention Week, Age UK Salford and Trafford will also be opening selected sessions to carers and family members, helping them learn more about falls prevention and how they can support loved ones to remain active and independent.
Tom Snape, Falls Prevention Co-ordinator at Age UK Salford and Trafford, said:
"Falls can have a significant impact on confidence and independence, but there is plenty of support available for people who may be at risk. Our programme helps residents build strength, improve balance and stay active, and we're looking forward to welcoming carers and family members during Falls Prevention Week to help them learn more about supporting loved ones."
Trafford Leisure's Physical Activity Referral Service also helps residents living with long-term health conditions become more active through specialist programmes, including falls prevention and rehabilitation activities. During 2025/26, 944 people completed the service.
Whether it's taking on the Super Six challenge at home, joining a strength and balance class or taking part in a local walking group, there are plenty of ways for Trafford residents to keep moving, stay steady and remain independent for longer.
Residents can download the Super Six leaflet, find local activities and learn more by visiting the Trafford Council website.