Care home residents keep active with innovative chair exercises

Residents at Queens Meadow care home, Hartlepool, are undertaking an innovative exercise programme in a drive to maintain a 'healthy body, healthy mind'.

The residents at the home have made it their New Year’s resolution to keep physically active and their minds agile by doing chair exercises.

Debbie Wilkes, activities coordinator at Queens Meadow care home, has designed the activities to maximise inclusion for all residents and any ability.

The sessions include seated exercises, seated table tennis, passing and rolling balls and balloons, and the use of parachute canopies – with different activities each week to keep the sessions challenging and exciting.

Ms Wilkes said: “I have really enjoyed working with the residents to find out what they’d like included in this year’s activity schedule, and the exercise sessions set to music were at the top of their list. The programme will include a range of activities, suited to the different abilities of our residents, and are a great way to build a sense of community and involvement.”

The exercise sessions form part of a wider activities schedule at the care home, including arts and crafts, live music and monthly residents’ meetings.

Julie Armstrong, care home manager, added: “We are committed to doing all we can to help our residents maintain their independence, and activities that both promote physical movement and provide mental stimulation are a great way to do this. The residents really enjoy the sessions and there are clear long-term benefits to these sorts of programmes.”

Hill Care was established in 2001 when John Hill bought his first home, Burton Closes Hall, in Bakewell, Derbyshire. Expansion in 2004 and 2006 led to the current portfolio of 21 homes.