Seniors in Oostwoud are walking across a sensor-equipped mat to assess their walking behavior and risk of falling. The Smartfloor uses sensors attached around the ankle to map movement. Anneke de Vries, 77, took part and said she had reduced strength in one leg because of a hernia.

Team Sportservice West-Friesland is taking the floor mat to villages to encourage older people at increased risk of falling to join the Balance course. In many cases, the municipality offers the course free of charge through the national “I Stand Strong” campaign. A fall-prevention course has also started in nearby Onderdijk, where about ten seniors are taking part.