A wheely good time – Newbury care home residents take unusual approach to getting fit

A care home in Newbury has been taking part in an unusual type of exercise. 

Residents and team members at Winchcombe Place, on Maple Crescent, have been enjoying a host of activities for a good cause 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.

Fundraising for Dementia UK, team members took part in a sponsored 150 miles bike ride, while residents chose to take part in a special seated exercise session and danced to some of their favourite songs. In total, the home raised £800, eight times their initial target.  

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. 

Kerry Thompson, Home Manager at Winchcombe Place, said: “We had a fantastic time taking part in our charity exercise day here at Winchcombe Place. 

“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 – especially when it’s all for a good cause!

“Judging by the smiles on everyone’s faces, our fundraising initiative was a hit – we are absolutely over the moon to have smashed our initial target and raised eight times more than we hoped for for Dementia UK. We’re looking forward to getting active again soon and continuing to support essential charities throughout the year!”

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!”

Winchcombe Place is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia and short-term respite care. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.

To find out more about Winchcombe Place, call Customer Relations Manager, Vicki Lambourne, on 0333 321 1923, email vicki.lambourne@careuk.com,or visit careuk.com/winchcombe-place.

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.