Newark Care Home ‘March for March’ to raise Awareness for Alzheimer’s Society

Every staff member and resident at the care home, situated on Bowbridge Road, played their part in helping to achieve the remarkable step count after being inspired by the heroic fundraising efforts of Captain Sir Tom Moore.

Residents opted to set themselves a walking challenge much like Captain Sir Tom to raise awareness for the Alzheimer’s Society charity by completing laps of their home.

Initially, residents aimed to reach a 30,000 thousand step target over four weeks throughout March using pedometers to keep track of their steps. However, as everyone embraced the challenge, they hit the target within the first two weeks. Everyone at the home marched on and were delighted to reach nearly 30 times their original target by the end of the month!

The team created a ‘yellow brick road’ step counter which was proudly displayed in the social lounge and updated each day with the latest total steps.

The residents were keen to get moving with the walkathon as a way to stay fit and active and enjoy the garden whilst the sun has been shining. Residents were given the option to complete their laps on foot or pedal their way to the target with the help of a seated pedal exercise machine.

84-year-old resident, Heather Walker, said, ‘The walks have been marvellous! It has been brilliant seeing everybody get involved, I was so glad to be able to take part and complete my laps on behalf of my home. The Alzheimer’s Society does brilliant work so I am glad we could spread awareness!’

Speaking after completing his laps, resident, Frank Cavander, said, ‘I am so pleased we have been able to do something good for the Alzheimer’s Society and spread some joy. Our walks have been no easy feat but despite most of us walking at a steady pace, the days have been filled with such laughter – I really enjoyed myself’.

Home Manager, Claire Gordon-Rundle, said, ‘I am absolutely blown away by the commitment of our team and residents to achieve 2 million steps! The team have been brilliant in organising the walks and our residents have embraced it with such gusto. It has been lovely to see everyone getting out in the garden and enjoying themselves –I can see us doing plenty more walks and challenges throughout the summer!’.
Bowbridge Court, operated by Ideal Carehomes, is a residential and dementia care home is currently welcoming new residents for short and long term placements and is rated as ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission. For more information about Bowbridge Court, contact Claire on 01636 605 528 or visit www.idealcarehomes.co.uk