Some of the residents at Old Charlton House had a fabulous time bobbing along the river when they experienced a wonderful boat trip along the Medina.
The residents travelled on a boat provided by the charity WetWheels, based in Hamble, who have boats which are adapted for people with mobility difficulties. The crew are all volunteers who offer their time to help remove the barriers that less mobile people face, so they are able to access the sailing experience.
Some of the residents were sailors in their life before Old Charlton, and the opportunity to relive some of their past was very well received. The weather was on their side and the sun shone down on them. The 1st and last part of the journey made a foray into the more open waters of the Solent which set the boat bobbing and made the residents laugh.
Resident Ray said he had a ‘wonderful, wonderful morning’. He smiled the whole time and pointed out the other boats sailing and looking at places of interest pointed out to him by one of the other residents.
Nora was thrilled to have been included and was amazed at how the shoreline has changed and developed since she last sailed down it. She wanted to look at all the photographs as soon as they had returned to the home and to discuss how much she enjoyed herself. She remarked that ‘the whole thing was very well organised, and the volunteers were amazing, helping everyone on board and the trip ran smoothly because of it.’
Joan was delighted to be able to take advantage of the experience and she shared many memories of her sailing days with us all. She was a little disappointed to learn that the trip didn’t include a glass of wine at the Folly, but she later had some with her lunch, so it wasn’t all bad!
Every 1 of the residents who travelled remarked how marvellous it had all been and that they were so glad that they had the opportunity to experience it.
At Old Charlton House, staff strive to provide the residents with quality activities to enrich their well-being and mental health.
Debbie Webb, Activities Coordinator, said:
“Seeing the joy on their faces and listening to their excited chatter make trips like this so worthwhile. We are so pleased to be able to offer activities like this to our residents.”
Great story. I’m really pleased to hear how these volunteers brought joy to the ladies & gents. I hope they get out for further adventures
What a fantastic day for all involved, it’s a shame not every care home do this for our elderly people who deserve to be looked after and treated to days like this!
It was a lovely story to read, thank you.