The classes have made me walk again after my fall - 86-year-old Gillibrand Care Home resident
She arrived at the home immobile following the fall.
A resident at Gillibrand Hall Care Home in Chorley is walking independently with a frame, seven months after a fall at home left her unable to stand.
Patricia Stirrup, 86, arrived at the home immobile following the fall, and needed to be hoisted for every transfer into a wheelchair. Staff had initial concerns she might never regain her independence or walk again.
Since January 2026 she has taken part in the home's weekly chair-based exercise classes and worked with an occupational therapist, and is now able to walk unaided with the support of a frame.
The classes combine seated exercises set to music with games, including gentle tennis and football, designed to mobilise residents' arms and legs.
The first time Patricia stood and walked unaided, care staff in the room applauded and she was moved to tears.
Patricia said: “I like to be able to use my arms and legs with the exercises. The classes have made me walk again and I am so happy about that.”
The classes have also given Patricia a renewed social life at the home, providing regular contact with other residents and staff.
Her son David Stirrup said seeing her walk again had come as a surprise.
He said: “I honestly thought it would never happen. Mum's improvement since she started the classes has been such a positive change, to see her walking again, after everything, has taken us all by surprise.
“It's given her so much more independence and confidence.”
Gillibrand Hall Care Home provides person-centred nursing care, specialist dementia support and respite care.
Kathy Spencer, Registered Manager at Gillibrand Hall, added: “Patricia's progress has been remarkable to watch, and it's testament to her own determination as much as the support of our team.
“Our exercise classes are about more than physical mobility - they build confidence and give residents a reason to look forward to their week together.