Millbeck care home gears up for Commonwealth Games

Residents at Millbeck care home in Stockton-on-Tees took a spin on Trixie the Trishaw sparking memories for a resident living with dementia.  

In the lead up to the 2022 Commonwealth Games, Millbeck hosted its own multi-sport event as part of the Anchor Games. Activities are tied to a theme each week with the visit from Trixie the Trishaw being part of their track and field event.  

We launched the Anchor Games across all 114 of our care homes to celebrate the Commonwealth Games and the benefits that being active has, both physically and mentally. You can discover more about the Anchor Games here, or searching for the hashtag #AnchorGames on social media. 

Debra Dowd, Manager of Millbeck said:

Everyone is really enjoying getting involved in the Anchor Games. It’s a great opportunity to exercise our bodies and minds while being able to socialise and have fun!  

Apart from competing in the Anchor Games, residents hopped on Trixie the Trishaw for a joy ride on 18 July. This was to mark the Stockton Cycling Festival returning for its 10th year this month and was provided by Hand in Hand Care CIC as part of their project Cycling Without Age. The initiative aims to give older people the experience of cycling no matter what their physical ability.  

John Boagey, resident at Millbeck care home, cycled all his life and even had a tandem bike. He is currently living with dementia and uses a pedal exerciser daily at the home. The cycling enthusiast was thrilled to experience the freedom and exhilaration of cycling again and reminisced as he cycled around Norton Village.   

Debra explained:

It was like the years temporarily fell away as John knew what position to get into without any prompting. He needed support to get into the trishaw but after riding he moved along and dismounted independently. It was really amazing to see.

We provide accessible and inclusive ways for residents to stay physically active across all of our care homes. Care teams have been putting together their own exciting lineup of activities to suit their residents’ abilities as part of the Anchor Games. Specialist equipment has been provided to ensure all residents can get involved if they want to. Residents and the care teams have been enjoying opening and closing ceremony parties, food tasting events (featuring dishes from the Commonwealth countries) and reminisce sessions where residents can unite in shared memories of sport.   

For more information on Millbeck care home please click here.