South London woman, 82, regains strength after hospital programme

An 82-year-old woman from South London has regained substantial physical strength, enabling her to perform everyday activities that were previously challenging after a wrist fracture. Christine Tan, who resides in the area, credits the 'Lift for Life' resistance programme at Guy's and St Thomas Hospital for her improved physical condition.

Following a wrist fracture in 2025, Ms Tan experienced difficulties with tasks such as driving, lifting a cup of tea, and carrying shopping. She initially feared the injury would lead to lifelong disability. The programme provided her with exercises that gradually increased her capacity, allowing her to lift weights she could not manage previously. By the end of the 10-week course, she reported significant improvements.

Ms Tan, who lives alone, stated that the programme enabled her to manage her shopping and other household tasks independently. She now attends various fitness classes approximately four times a week and aims to complete daily walking routines. She has shared her positive experience to encourage others to participate in similar activities, emphasising the importance of staying active in later life.

The 'Lift for Life' Programme

Physiotherapist James Cameron introduced the 'Lift for Life' resistance programme in October 2024. The initiative aims to help older adults enhance their strength and balance, contributing to healthier ageing. Guy’s Hospital is among the first healthcare facilities to implement this type of strength training for patients.

The programme provides 10 weekly sessions designed to improve functional fitness and equip participants with exercises they can continue at home or in local gyms. Mr Cameron explained that the typical patients referred to the programme require rehabilitation for strength and balance. He developed the initiative to offer a fundamental resistance training option for older individuals, aiming to reduce the risk of falls.

A questionnaire administered to potential participants revealed that over 90 per cent expressed interest in joining a strength-training class. Mr Cameron noted that participants often show considerable improvements and increased confidence. He highlighted Ms Tan's engagement and newfound confidence to try new activities as a rewarding outcome.

The programme typically accommodates 16 patients over a 10-week period. It includes a combination of resistance training, core exercises, and balance work. Generally, the programme accepts patients residing in the Lambeth and Southwark areas. Ms Tan remarked that friends at other hospitals who had suffered similar injuries did not receive comparable exercise programmes, expressing gratitude for living in an area served by the initiative.