On your marks…Stowmarket care home residents take unusual approach to getting fit

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

Residents at Cedrus House, on Bittern Crescent, have been hosting their very own ‘Armchair Athletics’ competition 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.

 

Events at the official ‘Cedrus House Armchair Athletics’ included balloon tennis and a bean bag toss, and residents even ended the afternoon with a 1970s and 80s themed, mood-boosting dance session to songs including Let’s Get Physical, by Olivia Newton John and You Make Me Feel Like Dancing by Leo Sayer. 

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. 

Michelle Webster, Home Manager at Cedrus House, said: “Let’s Get Physical is a fantastic initiative that encourages residents to get active and try new things.

“Here at Cedrus House, we are always trying to come up with interesting activities for residents to enjoy, so when we discovered armchair athletics, we knew it would be a hit!

“Residents loved balloon tennis and the bean bag toss – things were getting quite competitive! These types of activities are beneficial in improving hand eye co-ordination, which is an important skill to retain in older age.

“Judging by the smiles on everyone’s faces, armchair athletics is going to become a regular sight at Cedrus House!”

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!”

Cedrus House is a modern care home which provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable its residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema and hair salon, and there is plenty of space both in and outdoors for relaxation and recreation. 

To find out more about Cedrus House, please contact Customer Relations Manager, Julie Dennis, on 01449 797350, email Julie.dennis@careuk.com or visit:  careuk.com/cedrus-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.