Bringing Bollywood to Hale Barns – Care home residents take unusual approach to getting fit

A care home in Hale Barns has been taking part in an unusual type of exercise to kick start the new year. 

Residents at Halecroft Grange, on Hale Road, have been enjoying Bollywood dancing as part of Care UK’s ‘Let’s Get Physical’ initiative – which aims to encourage residents to get up and active by trying something new.

 

Residents experienced a Bollywood class, led by professional Bollywood teacher, Ambur Khan from Bollywood Vibes, who taught the residents about the history of Bollywood dancing through an online, virtual class. 

Residents also had the opportunity to put their dancing skills to the test, by trying out several Bollywood inspired moves with team members. 

The ‘Let’s Get Physical’ initiative sees Care UK homes across the country encourage residents to move more by trying something new and exciting – whether that be a seated ballet class, disco yoga or even ice skating. 

Suzi Sumegi, General Manager at Halecroft Grange, said: “We had a fantastic time taking part in our Bollywood virtual dance class here at Halecroft Grange.  

“Here at Halecroft Grange, we strive to ensure residents lead active and fulfilling lives. While regular activities at the home include gentle exercise classes and movement activities, we were keen to encourage residents to kickstart the new year by trying something new.

“Exercise is incredibly important for maintaining physical and mental health, especially in older people, whose mobility, balance, and strength naturally begins to decline with age. Enjoying physical exercise in a novel and exciting way can greatly increase resident involvement, leading to improved fitness levels and a more positive mood”.

As part of the initiative, Care UK has also teamed up with popular 80s fitness star, the Green Goddess, to create a series of bespoke exercise videos for its homes to enjoy. Residents and team members across the country are encouraged to don their best Lycra and neon accessories and take part in the fun new workouts. 

Diana Moran, the Green Goddess, said: “I am delighted to support Care UK to encourage residents across the country to get active by trying something new. 

“Regardless of age, keeping active is what keeps us young. Whether it’s walking a little further on your everyday stroll, or exercising a little longer, every day brings a new possibility. Even for those less mobile, chair-based exercises can be just as beneficial. Nothing should get in the way of you being the best version of you!”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Halecroft Grange, which remains open to potential residents, incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The building has been configured into a series of neighbourhoods to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.

Formerly known as Sunrise of Hale Barns, Halecroft Grange provides luxury, life-enabling care for older people. The highly trained, professional team delivers permanent and short-term residential, dementia and respite care.

For more information on Halecroft Grange, please call Director of Community Relations, Sharon Parkes on 0161 532 5989, or email Sharon.Parkes@careuk.com.

For more general information, please visit careuk.com/halecroft-grange.

To find out more about Care UK’s partnership with the Green Goddess, and for more top tips on how you and your loved ones can get involved at home, visit careuk.com/lets-get-physical.