Many Care workers claim that encouragement can be perceived as coercion. This is a valid and important subject and we understand the fear that sits around this topic of deprivation of liberty. This subject is key to standards and practise of your care work.
Teaching movement is about positivity and tone of voice. Using your emotional intelligence to read the signs and encourage people to relax and enjoy having some fun whilst moving.
No job is too small that cannot be done without safety. To reduce the risk of injury or other complications, individuals should start slowly and build up. No one is too old to enjoy the benefits of regular movement. For the older exerciser, research has proven time and time again, that strength training exercises can reduce the risk of falling and fracturing bones and can improve the ability to live independently.
The Good News
As motivators, you have the opportunity to encourage and make a difference.
Our Chief Medical Officer back in 1994 said “exercise is the wonder drug and should be prescribed to everyone”. Variations of this message have been promoted ever since. Sadly, the truth is, there is no money in movement but plenty in prescribing medication. Health and safety has disempowered us so we will not move someone until they have considerable qualifications.
