Residents of The Old Vicarage in Clay Cross have been making waves at dementia-friendly swimming sessions, which have been designed to enhance mobility, appetite and overall well-being.
David Palmer & Janet Sinclair attending their very first swimming session
The ‘Dementia-friendly swimming is enjoyable for everyone and provided residents living with dementia the chance to exercise as well as giving them confidence and a sense of empowerment.
Low impact exercise such as swimming, can be beneficial for physical and mental health and can improve the quality of life for people living with Dementia. Swimming in particular, has the added benefits of reducing anxiety, increasing flexibility and improving sleeping patterns.
Swim England has been supported by the Department of Health’s Innovation, Excellence and Strategic Development Fund to develop and implement the Dementia Friendly Swimming Project – a programme which enhances the swimming experience of those living with dementia by improving facilities and removing barriers.
“I find swimming very relaxing; I feel great afterwards and it is a good way to exercise, I feel young again, my body feels young again when I am in the water,” said David (84)
“Residents are having a wonderful time at the dementia-friendly swimming sessions. It is often believed that dementia can sometimes prevent people from taking part in activities that they used to enjoy, so it is wonderful to see residents having such a great time taking up swimming again. We have certainly seen our resident’s overall well-being and agility increase because of the sessions and we look forward to introducing more residents to the idea.” said Karen Middleton, Adept Care Homes Dementia Manager.
“Our Lifestyle and Wellbeing program is designed around our residents, their passions and interests and as David and Janet would agree, all helps to makes The Old Vicarage ‘a superb place to live or work,’ said Karen.
Please do give us a call on 01246 384110 if you are looking for care or need any further help.