Residents and staff at a care home in Colchester were recently jumping for joy as they took home gold in their local care home commonwealth games.
Twelve residents from Crouched Friars Residential Home took part in the games, delivered by FaNs (Friends and Neighbours) and Colchester Borough Council.
Crouched Friars were amongst over 80 other Colchester and Tendring residents who came along to Colchester Sports Park and participated in the games recently.
Funded by the NHS, the games encouraged residents to get up, move, and enjoy green open spaces.
The participants were warmed up and put through their paces with a routine specially designed for older people, who could enjoy penalty football from Colchester United FC, cycling from Wheels for All, boccia, curling and dance from Sport for Confidence, discus and shot put.
The Deputy Mayor of Colchester, Cllr John Jowers, awarded trophies and medals to the winners of each activity.
Paulina Eagle, Home Manager at Crouched Friars, commented: “We had a brilliant time at the Care Home Commonwealth games. All twelve residents got involved and were eager to participate in the activities and have a laugh.”
She continued: “Seeing the happy smiles on their faces is what it’s all about. Our care team here at Crouched Friars loved watching them take part and spending time with other care home residents.”
Two residents, Teresa and Sheila, have since mentioned the games every day to Paulina, saying, “We had such a brilliant time; when will we be able to have a go at the games again?!”
There is undeniable evidence of the benefits to mental health attributed to physical exercise for the elderly. Studies show approximately a 20% – 30% lower risk of depression and dementia for adults participating in physical activity.
Physical activity also seems to reduce the likelihood of experiencing cognitive decline in people who do not have dementia.
Paulina added, “It’s important to keep our residents active whilst ensuring they enjoy themselves. The event was well organised by everyone involved, and we’ve decided to take a few ideas from the games back home with us to do it again! Thank you!”
Crouched Friars left the games with four first places, one second and one third.
Crouched Friars are pleased to be still welcoming new residents to the home. They have specific procedures to continue supporting families looking for care for a loved one whilst minimising the risk for residents and staff.
The Residential Home has a team of dedicated care staff who provide around-the-clock dementia and residential care for residents.
For more information on Crouched Friars, or to take a look around the home, please call 01206 572647 or visit www.crouchedfriars.co.uk.
