Stronger together –Sale care home residents team up with local group to get fit

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

Residents at Oakfield Croft, on Oakfield, have been enjoying a host of activities and fitness classes 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.

With a bit of help from Ian, a personal trainer at Trafford Leisure, residents took part in a special seated exercise session – which was so popular among residents that the home team decided to make it a monthly feature. The home team also organised fun activities, from bowling and ball games to table tennis, which got everyone in the competitive spirit. 

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. 

Daniel Cole, Home Manager at Oakfield Croft, said: “We’ve had great fun discovering new ways to get up and active. 

“Here at Oakfield Croft, we understand that trying new activities can positively impact resident’s mental and emotional wellbeing, as well as improving their physical health too. Taking part in new and exciting forms of exercise presents residents with a new challenge. This can lead to greater self-confidence, which encourages older people to embrace their later years with gusto, retain their independence, and lead fulfilling lives.

“Everyone has really enjoyed taking part so far, and we are already planning our next set of quirky activities.”

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!”

Oakfield Croft has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilling lives, while also promoting independence. The new care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities, as well as facilities like a cinema, coffee shop and hair salon.

For more information on Oakfield Croft, please contact the Customer Relations Manager Jayne Eyre on jayne.eyre @careuk.com, call 0161 820 4019 or visit careuk.com/oakfield-croft.

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.