Three Norwich care home residents swing into action

A trio of residents at a care home in Norwich have had their wish to spend a day on the greens at a local golf club come true.

The team at Care UK’s Cavell Court, in Cringleford, teed up to bring the dreams of Terence Lloyd, 82, Vincenzo Gargiulo, 79, and Nihal Goonetilleke, 84, to life by taking them all on the green for the first time.

The day kicked off in full swing at Norwich Family Golf Centre, where the residents enjoyed riding in golf buggies, practicing at the driving range, and soaking up the atmosphere with drinks and lunch in the clubhouse. 

Reflecting on the day, Terence said: “It was a lovely day. When we arrived, everything was set up and ready to go. The instructor was brilliant; he was clear and helpful. I really enjoyed myself and would definitely do it again.”

Sport has always played a part in Vincenzo’s life and on trying golf for the first time, he said: “I’ve never played golf in my life as I’ve always been more into tennis, squash, and running. It was lovely to be able to be given the chance to try a new sport. Who would have thought at 79 I’d be enjoying golf for the first time?

Nihal shared: “I’ve never played golf or been very interested in it before. Today was my first time, and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. 

“The setup and surroundings were brilliant. When we arrived, we had a coach and a little area ready for us. For someone who’s never played, the training and structure were perfect. It was such a lovely day spent with the other gentlemen from around the home. I’m really happy I was given the opportunity to try something new.”

The trio’s adventure was part of Care UK’s Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to share old and try new hobbies, tick off lifelong goals and bring their dreams to life. 

Pedro Campos, Home Manager at Cavell Court, said: “I was so pleased to hear how much Terence, Vincenzo, and Nihal enjoyed their golf day and just how meaningful the experience was for each of them.

“Our Wishing Tree initiative is a great way for residents to share their dreams and interests, and it’s so rewarding to be able to make these a reality. Granting wishes is all par for the course at Cavell Court!

“This day gave Terence, Vincenzo and Nihal a wonderful opportunity to try something completely new. More importantly, it’s shown us you’re never too old to find new hobbies! 

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to the team at Norwich Family Golf Centre for hosting us. We’re already looking forward to our next trip to the links!”

Cavell Court is a modern care home that 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 care home has its very own cinema and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space both indoors and out for relaxation and recreation.