Members can exercise in confidence knowing that there is an experienced cardiac nurse on site at all times. There have been 504 consultations with the nurse during the period of the grant averaging 27 per morning. The nurse can signpost members to other agencies, if necessary. She has also been able to fast-track members if they present with symptoms that she feels need urgent attention, by contacting hospital or their GPs. She has also helped in training 20 members in CPR, so they have members with knowledge of resuscitation.
The growing confidence in the new members exercising cannot be stressed enough. They arrive very nervous and lacking in confidence of how much exercise they can do, and gradually they flourish and grow in confidence. This is much to do with having the cardiac nurse on site. They know they will be looked after.
“John is a 92-year-old. He was bereaved and alone. After heart problems, his daughter contacted us and asked us if we would be able to take him, as he was very deaf and had limited sight. We visited him at his residential home and invited him to come along. We found him a lift and he duly appeared the following week. He absolutely loved it and continues to come, now exercising twice a week. It has completely changed his life with new friendships and he feels much more confident in his health. He now plans to take part in the Christmas Party with some magic tricks. He is constantly thanking us for taking him on!”