Celebrating a Centurion at Brio Leisure

Bill McPhie, a dedicated participant in Brio’s Falls Prevention programme, recently celebrated a huge milestone – his 100th birthday.

Bill’s journey to a century of movement started when his daughter, Wilma, noticed a decline in his balance and a reduction in his ability to enjoy his favourite hobbies. Concerned, she referred him to Brio’s Falls Prevention service. 

The programme, available across Brio sites in Cheshire West and Chester, is free for eligible adults 65+ years through GP, health professional, or social care referral. Weekly sessions are led by trained Brio Wellbeing instructors, and offer tailored exercises designed to improve mobility and independence in a safe and supportive environment. 

Through consistent effort, Bill made remarkable progress. Guided by instructor Dora, Bill initially completed the timed exercised in 26.8 seconds on his 97^th birthday to 14.6 seconds on his 100^th. Bill previously used a wheelchair and can now confidently walk to the studio for classes. Wilma says they “could not feel in safer hands”.

Alongside the physical benefits, Bill formed many social connections. They describe Bill as an inspiration, showing that perseverance can improve health and mobility at any age. Friends and familiar faces around Brio Ellesmere Port came together to celebrate Bill’s birthday in February.

Wilma credits the programme with helping her father regain strength after a potentially life-threatening hospital stay in January last year. The exercises he practiced in the Falls Prevention and Low-Impact Brio Move sessions even impressed hospital staff, with one nurse remarking, “He does squats better than me!”. 

Bill’s story is a powerful reminder that falls can be prevented. With over 17 classes running in 7 Brio centres across Cheshire West & Chester, as well as outreach locations, these sessions demonstrate that independence and confidence can be maintained well into later life. 

To learn more or refer someone to Brio’s Falls Prevention Service, visit our Brio website to get started:

https://www.brioleisure.org/what-we-offer/wellbeing/falls-prevention

Pictured - Bill McPhie.