76-year-old daredevil care-home resident goes indoor skydiving

A Cheadle care home resident has proven that age is no barrier to adventure, after completing her second indoor skydive. 

Lynn Glanville, 76, a resident at Care UK’s Abney Court in Cheadle, took on a high-flying challenge at iFLY Manchester Indoor Skydiving Centre – determined to find out whether she still had the thrill of adventure in her later years.

Describing herself as someone who is “always up for a challenge,” Lynn was all smiles on the day, donning a flight suit and helmet before being lifted into the air by powerful wind tunnels designed to simulate the freefall of a real skydive. While many might feel nervous, Lynn took it in her stride, waving confidently to cheering staff and instructors. 

This was not Lynn’s first time defying gravity; her latest flight marked her second indoor skydiving experience, and her desire to relive the excitement was sparked by a lifelong passion for the extraordinary. 

Reflecting on the experience, Lynn said: “I thoroughly enjoyed it. It made me feel free and reminded me of when I did a real sky dive.”

Lynn has always had a daredevil spirit, previously appearing on the TV documentary Growing Old Disgracefully, which followed the lives of older people determined to make the most of life by stepping out of their comfort zones.

When asked about her past adventures, Lynn added: “I spent some time travelling around Europe in a fancy car with no real plans.”

Zoe Smart, Home Manager at Abney Court said: “Lynn is someone who always has stories to share about her younger years – full of adventure, spontaneity and humour – so it came as no surprise when she told us she wanted to do an indoor skydive. She’s constantly reminding us all that it’s never too late to try something new.

“Our Wishing Tree initiative is a wonderful way for residents to share their passions and ambitions and it’s hugely rewarding to be able to make these a reality. Lynn had a fantastic time and hasn’t stopped talking about her exhilarating experience since! 

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to the team at iFLY Manchester Indoor Skydiving Centre for making the experience so special, and to the wonderful team at Abney Court for supporting Lynn throughout.”

Lynn’s trip to iFLY was part of the care home’s ongoing commitment to helping residents live rewarding lives and stay connected to their passions and the wider community.

This special outing was made possible through the Care UK Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to share their personal ambitions and wishes. Whether it's revisiting a past hobby, reconnecting with a passion, or trying something completely new, every wish is embraced – no matter how big or small – and the team commits to trying to fulfil them.

Abney Court provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the home has its very own café, cinema and hair salon, as well as plenty of space, both indoors and out, for relaxation and recreation. The home has a comprehensive activity programme, offering a mix of themed events and group activities.