RESIDENTS at a Windsor care home served their best shots after taking part in a recent sporting tournament.
Mountbatten Grange care home, on Helston Lane, Windsor, got into their best sporting gear for a game of balloon tennis on January 21.
Inspired by the Australian Open, residents and team members held the event as part of Care UK’s ‘Let’s Get Physical’ initiative.
The aim of the scheme is to encourage residents to get up and active by trying something new.
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Debbie Winwood, manager of Mountbatten Grange, said residents had a fantastic time taking part in the tournament.
She said: “We are constantly looking for new and exciting ways to encourage residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, which is why an adapted tennis tournament seemed like the perfect activity.
“Tennis involves a certain amount of tactical thinking and coordination of the body, and in older people tennis can help to improve brain function to aid memory and learning, while tennis-based activities have even been shown to be beneficial to those with dementia.”
Residents went head-to-head against each other in different matches wearing homemade England shirts and sweatbands.
The staff created the court with a tennis backdrop on a TV screen and artificial grass.
And 91-year-old Jack Forman aced the competition by winning two out the three rounds.
Winwood added the tournament a hit with the residents, judging by the smiles on their faces.
She said: “We are looking forward continuing the sessions throughout 2022 and, who knows, we may have the next Roger Federer in our midst.”
As part of the initiative, Care UK has also teamed up with popular 80’s fitness star, the Green Goddess, to create exercise videos for its homes to enjoy.
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Diana Moran, the Green Goddess, said: “I am delighted to support Care UK to encourage residents across the country to get active by trying something new.
“Regardless of age, keeping active is what keeps us young.
“Whether it’s walking a little further on your everyday stroll, or exercising a little longer, every day brings a new possibility.
“Even for those less mobile, chair-based exercises can be just as beneficial. Nothing should get in the way of you being the best version of you.”
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