Let’s get physical – Orpington care home residents take an unusual approach to getting fit

A care home in Orpington has been looking to the past for inspiration on how to keep fit this January.

Residents and team members at Care UK’s Foxbridge House, on Sevenoaks Road, donned their workout wear and neon accessories to take part in an 80s themed workout class, which forms part of Care UK’s ‘Let’s Get Physical’ initiative. 

As part of their activities, residents completed a series of low impact, tailored exercise routines suitable for those in later life and designed to improve flexibility and blood circulation. Not wanting to miss out on the fun, lifestyle team member, Liz McKeown, led an 80s inspired disco party where residents enjoyed a workout in the home’s lounge, which had been decorated with disco balls and party balloons. 

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

Stella Barnes, Home Manager at Foxbridge House said: “We had a fantastic time keeping active at our 80s themed disco party.

“Here at Foxbridge House, 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.

Foxbridge House has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care.  
 
For more information about Foxbridge House, please call Customer Relations Manager, Dorothy Ayonmike, on 01689 769 229, email dorothy.ayonmike@careuk.com or visit careuk.com/foxbridge-house.

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.