It’s been an exciting few weeks at Crouched Friars residential home as we have recently taken home gold in the local Colchester care home Commonwealth games!
12 of our lovely residents took part in the ‘Care HomeCommonwealth Games’ in July, delivered by FaNs (Friends and Neighbours) and Colchester Borough Council. We were amongst more than 80 other Colchester and Tendring residents who came along to Colchester Sports Park and took part in the games.
Funded by the NHS, the games encouraged the residents to get up, get moving and enjoy green open spaces.
The residents were warmed up and put through their paces with a routine specially designed for older people, who were able to 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 medals to the winners of each activity, which everyone enjoyed watching.
Paulina Eagle, home manager at Crouched Friars, said: “We had a brilliant time at the Care Home Commonwealth Games recently. All 12 of the residents got involved and were so eager to take part in the activities and have a laugh.”
She continued: “Seeing the happy smiles on their faces is what it’s all about. All of our care team here at Crouched Friars loved watching them take part and spending time with other care home residents.”
Two residents at Crouched Friars, Theresa and Sheila have since mentioned the games every day to Paulina, both mentioning; “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 that there is 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 so important to keep our residents active and moving, whilst ensuring they are enjoying themselves. The event was so well organised by everyone involved and we’ve now decided we are going to take a few ideas from the games back to Crouched with us to do again! Thank you!”
Crouched Friars completed the games with four gold medals, one silver and two bronze!
Crouched Friars is pleased to be welcoming new residents to the home. We have specific procedures in place, to continue to support families who are looking for care for a loved one, whilst minimising the risk for residents and staff.
We care for the elderly and those living with dementia in our lovely care home located on Crouched Street in Colchester.